Blog
Lynch Syndrome Across a Lifetime
Cancer Trials Ireland
Every family in Ireland has been touched by cancer. Thankfully, we have made huge progress in finding it and treating it. But there’s more to be done.
Many questions remain unanswered. Maybe you can help find the answers by taking part in a cancer trial.
Basics of Lynch Syndrome
Precision Medicine
For decades, genetic testing was rationed, reserved only for patients who fit narrow, outdated clinical guidelines. But what happens when those guidelines leave countless people at risk?
In this episode, clinical geneticist and medical innovator Dr. Ed Esplin of LabCorp Genetics reveals how his team’s groundbreaking research exposed the flaws in restrictive testing policies. Through rigorous studies in breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and beyond, they proved that universal germline genetic testing identifies far more at-risk patients than guidelines ever predicted and fundamentally changes how we treat and prevent disease.
The data has forced a reckoning: when up to “50% of high-risk patients were being missed”, “standard of care” was anything but standard care.
From community oncology clinics to rare disease diagnostics, he makes the case that access to genetic insights should be driven by evidence, not just eligibility criteria.
Menopause, Diet and Cancer
This resource is designed to offer practical, evidence-based guidance on how dietary and lifestyle choices can alleviate menopausal symptoms and enhance overall well-being during this unique phase of life. Cancer treatments can sometimes trigger a sudden, intense menopause, often leading to more severe symptoms than those of natural menopause. For some, these symptoms are manageable, while others may find them overwhelming, impacting quality of life.
This book provides support and strategies, covering nutrition and lifestyle modifications to help ease these challenges.
UCAN Ireland
United Cancer Advocates Network is a network of advocates across the Island of Ireland.
They represent a broad range of cancers and locations.
Traditionally they have been advocating in their our own disease areas, now they come together to speak as one voice on key issues that impact the whole cancer community.
Their focus is on raising awareness and bringing solutions to resolve key systemic issues.
Clinical challenges and patient experiences in early-onset colorectal cancer: insights from seven European countries
Results
Participants highlighted several key challenges, including low awareness of CRC symptoms among younger populations, diagnostic delays linked to age and gender biases, and limited access to age-appropriate support services. Many participants reported significant quality-of-life (QoL) impacts related to disrupted careers, intimacy issues, and challenges managing family responsibilities during treatment. Psychological support, physiotherapy, and nutritional counseling were inconsistently available, with significant disparities across public and private healthcare systems.
Immunotherapy and Other Treatments in Lynch Syndrome
Cancer: A word to dread, to not fear and NEVER to celebrate
Those of us going through or have gone through cancer can’t escape the utter dread you feel when that medical person tells you to your face you have cancer. Regardless of the type or severity of cancer, you hear that word in your ears, you feel that word enter your body, mind and psyche, your world stops. Your mind goes blank.
My progress and response to my ongoing treatment for inoperable prostate cancer has been extremely encouraging. I hope to be given great news around the second anniversary of my diagnosis next October. It’s by no means a given. I must stay focussed and positive. And I will. I am grateful for all I have despite that life-changing day nineteen months ago.
Cancer is a fucking curse. Cancer is a wrecking ball, physically and mentally. Be grateful if it never comes to your door. Be better in life. We’re not perfect, we all do and say stupid things, so we can all be better. But be better.
Lynch Syndrome Ireland 