Padraig Harrington says his family has first-hand experience of the ‘devastation’ of cancer ahead of Lollipop Day

The golf legend and Dublin native lost his father to this form of cancer nearly two decades ago.

“Unfortunately, my family has experienced the devastation of this cancer, having lost my dad to it in 2005,” he said.

"He had been experiencing symptoms for quite some time and an earlier diagnosis could have made a big difference.

"What we do know for sure is that early detection saves lives and that’s why awareness building is so important.”

Mr Harrington has teamed up with the Oesophageal Cancer Fund ahead of Lollipop Day on Friday, February 23, and Saturday, February 24.

"I’m delighted to support the work of the OCF and to help spread awareness through Lollipop Day about the symptoms of this terrible cancer and to encourage people to book an early GP appointment,” he added.

It comes as Ireland has one of the highest rates of oesophageal cancer in Europe with more than 500 people diagnosed each year.

This disease is also the sixth leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide, while it is more common among men than women.

The charity highlights early detection is vital for recovery as the early signs of oesophageal cancer can be easily overlooked and dismissed as digestive complaints.

These symptoms include difficulty swallowing, persistent acid indigestion, heartburn, reflux and unexplained weight loss.

Chief executive of Oesophageal Cancer Fund Carmel Doyle appealed to the public to go and see their GP early if they experience any of these symptoms.

“Unfortunately, approximately 70pc of patients experience these symptoms for three months before contacting their GP and we urge people to go to their GP early.

“The good news is that survival rates show a 50pc improvement in Ireland.

"We need to work to improve that figure by encouraging early detection and improving the knowledge around the symptoms of oesophageal cancer. For that, we need donations from the public,” Ms Doyle said, whose husband was also diagnosed with this cancer in 2011 and has recovered well due to early diagnosis.

“That’s why knowing the symptoms really matters and we want people to act fast.

“Early detection not only saves lives but it also saves money in the Irish healthcare system.

"We are very proud at OCF of the work we do in patient support, early detection and research, and the funds raised through Lollipop Day are vital in keeping all of that going.

“It is a very scary cancer but with more patients, like my husband Gerry, sharing their stories and driving this awareness campaign, along with our patron Padraig Harrington, we can beat this cancer through knowledge, action and care,” she added.

This Friday and Saturday, volunteers will be at 80 locations nationwide to sell lollipops to raise funds and awareness.

The charity also urged people to donate online and to organise their own school or company fundraiser this year.

It is also organising support meetings around the country this year, with educational workshops, and literature on diet, exercise, sleep patterns and wellbeing for those affected.