Cancer outcomes improved over three decades
A report from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland shows that cancer survival rates have significantly improved over the last 30 years due to better treatments and earlier diagnosis. While total diagnoses are rising, this is attributed to demographic changes rather than increased risk.
Why it matters
The data provides evidence of the long-term efficacy of public health investments and advancements in medical research.
There has been sustained improvement in cancer outcomes here over the last 30 years, new data has revealed.
The National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) shows that death rates have declined and survival rates across many cancer types have improved.
The report looks at 1994-2023 and offers the most comprehensive analysis to date of long-term trends in incidence, mortality and survival.
Dr Theresa Redaniel, Acting Director of the NCRI, said the findings point to measurable and encouraging progress in cancer control.
She said the improvements reflect progress in earlier diagnosis and significant advances in treatments.
The data shows that overall five-year survival for invasive cancers increased from 50% for people diagnosed in the five years from 1999-2003, to 66% for those diagnosed twenty years later in 2019-2023.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in