President Michael D. Higgins’ wife, Sabina Higgins, is being treated for breast cancer – Áras an Uachtaráin statement

Ms Higgins underwent a successful procedure yesterday as part of ongoing treatment, Áras an Uachtaráin confirmed.

In a statement, Ms Higgins said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the doctors and medical staff who provided me with such expert care during my treatment.”

“I would like to use my diagnosis as an opportunity to urge all women to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer and to get checked as regularly as possible.”

She added: “It may come as a surprise to many people to learn that the risk of breast cancer increases with age and that 36% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland are over 70 years old.”

While BreastCheck screening is performed for women up to age 69, I would like to remind all women over 70 of the importance of continuing to regularly screen for possible symptoms of breast cancer and seeking medical evaluation whenever possible. ”