A breast awareness programme aimed at secondary school teachers and transition year students has been launched.

The Breast Health Education and Awareness programme is run by Breast Cancer Ireland and it aims to encourage and educate women about good breast health from a young age.

The programme involves Breast Cancer Ireland nurses presenting to schools nationwide. Young female students and their teachers are taught how to perform a self-breast examination.

They are also taught how to recognise the eight symptoms of the disease, and are encouraged to download Breast Cancer Ireland's free Breast Aware app.

An awareness campaign over the coming weeks will encourage teachers and principals to book free demonstrations for their transition year students and colleagues.

Some 30% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in people aged between 20 and 50 and Breast Cancer Ireland emphasised that the earlier a diagnosis is made, ‘the better the treatment outcome'.

The programme is being sponsored by Cornmarket Group Financial Services and speaking at the announcement of this sponsorship, 31-year-old secondary school teacher, Emma Cassidy, spoke about her experience of being diagnosed with the disease.

"I was so shocked to learn of my diagnosis as I thought breast cancer was an older woman's disease. Never did I think it could happen to me but I am adamant not to let it define me and am determined to ensure that my fellow female colleagues in education become more breast aware and understand good breast health," she commented.

To learn more about the programme or to register for a visit, schools are encouraged to visit the Education & Awareness section on www.breastcancerireland.com

*Pictured is secondary school teacher and breast cancer survivor, Emma Cassidy