Prime Highlights:
- Veterinarians in Northern Ireland will now help farmers with their health by discussing medical issues during farm visits.
- The initiative, ‘Nip It In The Bud’, aims to encourage early diagnosis of serious illnesses, including cancer.
Key Facts:
- The campaign is a collaboration between the Farming Community Network (FCN) and Macmillan Cancer Support.
- Vets will receive training on human health and communication skills and will provide leaflets guiding farmers to see doctors.
Background:
Veterinarians in Northern Ireland are being asked to help farmers look after their health through a new project focused on early medical check-ups. The ‘Nip It In The Bud’ campaign, run by the Farming Community Network (FCN) and Macmillan Cancer Support, encourages vets to talk to farmers about health during their regular farm visits.
Dairy farmer Barry O’Boyle from County Antrim highlighted the importance of the program, explaining that many farmers “don’t want to take up doctors’ time” and often prioritize animal health over their own.
Veterinarians, who frequently develop close relationships with farming families, are now receiving additional training in human health awareness and communication skills as part of their 35 hours of annual continuing education. This helps them advise farmers to see a doctor and give out leaflets about the importance of getting checked early.
Dr. Melanie Spahn-Holmes, a vet with nearly 25 years of experience, noted that farmers often approach her with health concerns alongside questions about livestock. “While I always advise them to see a doctor, these conversations open the door to important health awareness,” she said.
Healthcare professionals have raised concerns about delayed diagnoses among farmers, sometimes due to seasonal work pressures. Katrina Crawford, a radiographer with FCN, explained, “Farming patients often put their work first, even delaying treatments like radiotherapy. Early awareness and support are crucial.”
Sarah Christie, national lead at Macmillan Cancer Support, emphasized the value of using vets as trusted messengers. “Traditional campaigns don’t always reach farmers. Vets are present on farms daily and can genuinely connect with them.”
Health Minister Mike Nesbitt endorsed the project, describing it as “the first of its kind” with the potential to save lives by combining trust, empathy, and practical support to encourage early medical intervention in rural communities.
