Labour demand introduction of national Lung Cancer Screening Programme
Labour Senator and Oireachtas Health Committee member Annie Hoey has called on Government to introduce lung cancer screening programme to help with earlier diagnosis.
Senator Hoey said:
“Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in Ireland, yet it is largely preventable if it is caught early. Right now, we know that lung cancer is typically diagnosed at a late stage in Ireland, with two out of every three lung cancers being diagnosed at Stage III or IV. It doesn’t have to be this way.
“I am calling for the introduction of a LungCheck screening programme, similar to that of BreastCheck or CervicalCheck. The data from the NCRI reports that incidence of lung cancers is higher in more deprived areas. We must act in light of this and give people a fair chance. The screening service could identify those most at risk in society of lung cancer, and invite those who would benefit from screening to partake.
“Ireland’s two-tier health system has a severe impact on the most disadvantaged in Irish society. It’s the same story – if you can pay you can have access to screening services and early intervention care. If you can’t, well tough luck.
“Sadly almost every family in the country has been affected by cancer, but lung cancer can be identified early by screening, particularly those who are more at risk. The reality is that screening saves lives.
“Screening programmes need proper resourcing and we need ambition to prevent rather than cure where possible. Preventative measures must be taken to give everyone in this country a better chance against this horrid disease.”