President Higgins' wife Sabina undergoes successful breast cancer procedure

Áras an Uachtaráin has confirmed the President of Ireland's wife has underwent a successful procedure for breast cancer treatment. 

In a statement released today (November 9), Sabina Higgins thanked the doctors and medical staff who are providing her with "such expert care" in her treatment. 

She said, "I would like to take the opportunity of my diagnosis to call on all women to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer and to seek checks as regularly as they can. 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 the age of 70.

"While BreastCheck screening runs for women up to the age of 69, I would urge all women over the age of 70 of the vital importance of continuing to look for any potential symptoms of breast cancer on a regular basis and to seek medical checks whenever possible." 

Social media users wished her well in her treatment, with one person commenting on X to state, "Sending love and healing prayers & thoughts. Get well soon Sabina." 

Another person said, "Best wishes to Sabina for her recovery!" with a further person said, "Best wishes to Mrs Higgins and fair play for raising awareness while recovering."