Warrenpoint and Saval Residents Benefit from Big Bus Visit
Crotlieve District Electoral Area Forum (DEA), in partnership with County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN) and Warrenpoint Women’s Group, was delighted to host a visit of the Action Cancer Big Bus to Warrenpoint on Thursday 6 March.
The Big Bus offers two comprehensive health services designed to help individuals better understand their health risks and take proactive steps toward a healthier future.
The services offered include Breast Screening and Health Checks, both critical for early detection and preventive care. The demand for these essential services has been overwhelming, with 21 Breast Screening slots and 11 Health Check appointments fully booked in record time. This strong response highlights the significant need for accessible health services and demonstrates how crucial early intervention and regular health assessments are for the community.
Speaking about the visit, Crotlieve DEA Chairperson, Councillor Mickey Ruane said, “I am delighted to welcome the Action Cancer Big Bus to Warrenpoint and Saval. People in the area had the opportunity to visit the Big Bus and get help and information to assist them in making improved lifestyle choices. I am grateful that in association with Action Cancer and CDRCN, Crotlieve DEA has been able to offer what could be a life changing appointment to residents in both areas.”
The mobile facility, which travels across Northern Ireland, provides mammograms—an x-ray procedure that detects very small cancers before they cause symptoms or can be felt. Action Cancer is the only charity in the UK and Ireland to offer breast screening to women aged 40 – 49 and 70 plus who fall outside the NHS age range. They have been screening women in Northern Ireland for breast cancer since 1978, ten years ahead of the NHS, offering services that have saved countless lives.
The second service offers a 20-minute health check. This convenient and accessible appointment includes four key tests that provide important insights into an individual’s overall health and potential risks.
The Blood Pressure test measures the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. If blood pressure is too high, it can strain both the arteries and the heart, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease. The Cholesterol test is equally important, as high cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, raising the risk of serious cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and strokes. A Glucose test, taken from a small sample of blood, is used to assess blood sugar levels. High glucose levels can indicate an increased risk of developing diabetes.
Additionally, the health check includes a Body Composition analysis, carried out through Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA). This advanced test measures weight, body fat percentage, fat mass, muscle mass, total body water percentage, metabolic age, basal metabolic rate and visceral fat—fat that surrounds internal organs and is associated with increased health risks.
Alongside these tests, The Big Bus also provides a lifestyle review and cancer awareness information, offering guidance on how to improve overall health and reduce the risk of various diseases.
The Big Bus continues to play a vital role in delivering high-quality health care to individuals, helping to ensure that they stay informed and take necessary steps to protect their long-term wellbeing.