A new education and support programme, aimed at people who have been diagnosed with secondary cancer, is set to begin later this month in Dublin.

A primary cancer refers to where a cancer begins. For example, if you have cancer that begins in the breast, this is known as primary breast cancer. Sometimes, these cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body and start to grow there. These cells are made up of the same type of cells as the primary cancer and this is known as secondary cancer.

In others words, if breast cancer cells start growing in the lungs, this is not considered lung cancer, but secondary breast cancer.

This new support programme for people with secondary cancer is being run by ARC Cancer Support Services, a voluntary organisation which offers care and support to people affected by cancer, including counselling services and complementary therapies.

There are two centres, one in north Dublin and one in south Dublin.

According to Tricia Pugh, the new programme's facilitator, ‘it can be hugely challenging for people who are diagnosed with secondary cancer to know what this means for them and how best to address this new reality'.

"During this programme, we aim to provide support and information along with a huge emphasis on self-care. We also offer people a chance to meet with others going through a similar situation, which can give a person a real sense of togetherness and self-confidence," she explained.

Some of the issues that will be covered by the programme include relationships and intimacy, diet and nutrition, physical activity, fatigue and stress management.

The eight-week programme begins in the ARC Centre on Eccles Street, beside the Mater Hospital, on June 12. There is no cost involved and anyone interested in taking part should contact Jane or Sally Anne on (01) 8307 333.

For more information on the ARC Centres, click here