SPAR and EUROSPAR have joined forces with the National Breast Cancer Research Institute to launch an innovative public awareness campaign entitled Breast Before Dates to raise awareness about the importance of regular check-ups and self-examination for breast cancer.
Every year, around 3,587 women and approximately 30 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland.[1] It is the most common invasive cancer in women and the second most common cause of cancer death in women.[2] Currently, one in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. The National Breast Cancer Research Institute (NBCRI) is a national charity that funds a comprehensive research programme at the University of Galway that helps improve the diagnosis, treatment options, and outcomes for those who develop the disease.
Supported by Podcaster and Breast Cancer survivor, Georgie Crawford, SPAR and EUROSPAR’s nationwide network of retailers are getting behind the campaign by adding eye-catching and provocative labels to products in store that include a QR code with link to set a reminder on mobile phones to regularly self-check. Window posters and digital animations will create further awareness amongst shoppers.
SPAR and EUROSPAR announced NBCRI as their first ever joint official charity partner in 2024 and have been raising funds and awareness for the charity through a series of fundraising activities and a donation on select SPAR Own Brand products. To date, SPAR and EUROSPAR retailers have donated a creditable €430,187 for the charity.
Commenting, Prof Michael Kerin (Research Director, National Breast Cancer Research Institute) said:
“One in seven women in Ireland will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes, and 30 men are diagnosed with this disease every year. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and monthly self-examination are among the healthiest habits we can all adopt. NBCRI are hugely grateful to SPAR and EUROSPAR retailers across Ireland for their incredible continued commitment to our Research Programme since the beginning of our partnership, and we sincerely thank them for their fantastic support of this awareness campaign.”
Suzanne Weldon, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer with BWG Foods said:
“We’re all very aware of the importance of Best Before dates on our food products. Having a Breast Before date included to remind shoppers to set regular reminders to self-check for any abnormalities is an important call-to-action for everyone who visits their local SPAR and EUROSPAR.”
The Breast Before Dates campaign is designed to prompt shoppers to scan the labels in stores, or perhaps in the kitchen at home, or even in a staff canteen, set their regular reminder alarm in their phone and, also, to encourage conversation about this very important topic. SPAR and EUROSPAR are ingrained in communities in every county across Ireland, and the support of its network of retailers in promoting this public-awareness campaign will make a real difference.
[1] Source: National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) Annual Statistical Report (December 2024)
[2] Source: National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) Annual Statistical Report (December 2024)
