Cancer outcomes improved over three decades - study

Over the past 30 years, cancer outcomes in Ireland have shown significant improvement, according to a comprehensive study by the National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI). The report, covering the period from 1994 to 2023, highlights a decline in death rates and an increase in survival rates across various types of cancer. Dr Theresa Redaniel, Acting Director of the NCRI, emphasized that these improvements are a result of earlier diagnosis and significant advancements in treatments.

The data shows that five-year survival rates for invasive cancers have risen from 50% in the years 1999-2003 to 66% in the more recent period of 2019-2023. Ireland's death rates for cancers like cervical and colorectal, which are often linked to early diagnosis, are comparatively low among EU member states. While cancer remains the leading cause of death in Ireland, accounting for nearly 30% of all deaths, the total number of cancer diagnoses and deaths is increasing due to demographic changes rather than an actual rise in risk.

Adjusted for age and population size, cancer incidence rates have declined for both men and women. Approximately 10,000 people die from cancer annually in Ireland, with around 47,000 new cases diagnosed each year. The Irish Cancer Society has hailed these improvements as a testament to the impact of ongoing investment in cancer research, early detection methods, and innovative treatments.

Despite these advancements, the society predicts that Ireland's cancer rates could double by 2045 compared to 2015 levels. Mariana Cervantes, a breast cancer survivor, shared her journey, which included chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy. She stresses the importance of early detection and regular self-examinations, especially for younger women.