Call for a fresh vision for cancer

Call for a fresh vision for cancer

Cancer Focus Northern Ireland is calling on all political parties to commit to a new Cancer Strategy in the lead up to the coming elections.

Launching the Cancer Focus NI 2017 Manifesto, Chief Executive Roisin Foster warned that patient outcomes are on a par with those in some eastern European countries for certain cancers.

Mrs Foster said: “We need a fresh vision for cancer here, and an end to the complacency that accepts poorer outcomes for local people. That is why we ask all parties to commit to a new Cancer Strategy, that has ambitious and measurable targets, and that will take the fight against cancer forward in Northern Ireland.”

Among our areas of concern are:

  • It’s projected that cancer cases will rise by 65% among men to 7,200 and by 63% for women to 7,000 by 2035

  • Cancer waiting times have persistently failed to meet ministerial targets

  • Local patients are denied access to life extending cancer drugs available in GB

  • Important public health initiatives have not been implemented eg minimum unit pricing of alcohol and setting a target date for a ‘Tobacco Free NI’

  • Awareness of signs and symptoms of cancer is lower here than in other developed countries

Mrs Foster said: “Cancer Focus NI recognises the positive steps taken by the outgoing Assembly, including public consultations on banning smoking in cars carrying children, and further consultation on a reformed Individual Funding Request policy aimed at giving enhanced access to cancer drugs. However, consultation alone does not equate to progress on the ground.”

She added: “We also wish to thank outgoing MLAs for the commitment given to the All Party Group on Cancer, ensuring cancer was never far from the Assembly’s radar.” 

Professor Mark Lawler, Queen’s University Belfast, said: “The last Cancer Strategy in Northern Ireland was published in 2008.  There has been a step change both in our understanding of cancer and in how we prevent and treat this deadly disease.

“It is imperative that we develop a modern integrated cancer strategy, informed by research, innovation and best international practice - otherwise we risk undermining the excellent care that our healthcare professionals give under increasingly challenging circumstances to our patients.

“The lack of a strategic vision for cancer and its implementation is not acceptable - we must deliver for the citizens of Northern Ireland.”

 

 

Last updated 7 years 1 month ago