Health and Wellbeing Event Comes to Darragh Cross

Residents in Darragh Cross and the surrounding areas have availed of free basic health checks thanks to a visit by Action Cancer’s Big on Saturday 4 March, which was organised by Rowallane District Electoral Area Forum (DEA) in partnership with County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN).

Every year people strive to become fitter and healthier. Although a good diet and exercise regime is recommended, most people forget about the importance of checking their own health. The Action Cancer Big Bus mobile clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced health professionals, offering breast screening, health checks and health promotion services. These screenings can help with early detection of cancer, when it is most treatable and can also identify other health concerns such as diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure.

The clinics were available for anyone to attend and women between the ages of 40-49 and 70+ could also avail of a breast screening service.  All available appointments were fully booked on the day demonstrating the need for health events such as these within rural communities where doorstep access to hospital and clinic screening services are not always readily available.

Speaking at the event, Rowallane DEA Chairperson, Councillor Robert Burgess said, “I have personal experience of the life changing effects of a stroke and believe prevention and education is key to tackling this rising problem.”

Cllr Burgess continued, “Action Cancer’s Big Bus is a lifeline for rural communities. It is so important that everyone, irrespective of where they live has access to these health screening services. Today 35 residents have had the opportunity to visit the Action Cancer Big Bus, getting help and information to assist them with making improved lifestyle choices. I am delighted that partnership working has been able to offer what could be a life changing appointment to residents in the Darragh Cross area.”