More than 50 former League of Ireland players have received free, comprehensive health screenings as part of a pioneering new initiative from the Irish Professional Footballers Benevolent Association (IPFBA).

The scheme, run in partnership with Advanced Medical Services (AMS) and titled ‘Watch Your House – And Your Health,’ launched for the first time last week. It is a first-of-its-kind programme in Ireland, specifically aimed at protecting and enhancing the long-term wellbeing of both male and female former LOI players.

The inaugural event, which took place in Athlone, provided a free 20-minute check-up fully funded by the IPFBA. Following the examination, each participant will receive a confidential consultation and expert advice from a GP regarding their health results.

FAI Medical Director Dr. Alan Byrne, who volunteers with the IPFBA, said: “This is an important measure we are taking. Thirty per cent of middle-aged men will die as a result of a stroke or a heart attack in Ireland this year, and for women, that figure is 22 per cent.

“As part of this preventive health screening initiative, we asked the members to complete a lifestyle and mental health questionnaire along with blood pressure and BMI measurement. They had a resting ECG (electrocardiogram) and a comprehensive blood panel including cholesterol, blood sugar, liver and renal profile, full blood count, thyroid function, and prostate-specific antigen.

“The screening results will be reviewed by a consultant cardiologist and the clinical director of AMS and reported confidentially to each member with specific recommendations when indicated. The primary aim of this programme is prevention, and I hope the results will encourage members to engage with their GPs.”

The IPFBA plans to roll out the health screening scheme on an annual basis.

IPFBA Chairperson Harry McCue said: "The health of our former players is a top priority for the IPFBA. These screenings provide a vital, proactive step in safeguarding their long-term wellbeing long after they have hung up their boots. The response to this first event has been fantastic, and it reinforces our commitment to making this an annual fixture. Our message to former players is simple: the game still cares about you, and we are here to help."