Research indicates 'likelihood of dying from cancer in Ireland is decreasing'
New research from the National Cancer Registry of Ireland shows that cancer survival rates have significantly improved over the last 30 years due to better early diagnosis and treatment. While the number of cases is rising, this is attributed to demographic changes rather than increased individual risk.
Why it matters
This data provides a critical update on public health outcomes, demonstrating the effectiveness of modern medical interventions and screening programs.
The NCRI figures show better access to early diagnosis impacted patients with multiple myeloma, prostate cancer, cervical and colorectal cancers. File photo: iStock
Up to 95% of patients are now surviving some cancers five years after diagnosis, new research has found.
The National Cancer Registry of Ireland (NCRI) has detailed how survival rates have improved over the last 30 years. The NCRI urged caution when interpreting the implications of data showing the number of cancer cases rising in Ireland.
“This increase, however, is largely explained by demographic change rather than any increase in risk, and the figure can sometimes be misinterpreted,” the report found.
The population grew from 3.6 million in 1994 to 5.3 million in 2023. “NCRI analysis shows that, after adjusting for age and population size, cancer incidence rates have declined in both men and women,” the report found.
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