Vol. 557 No. 6
188 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the percentage increase in cancer cases since 1970; the likely causes for the increase and its effect on health spending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23174/02]
My Department has been informed by the national cancer registry that there is no information available on the number of cancer cases for any year prior to 1994. From 1994 to 1999 malignant cancer cases have increased by 1.2% per annum for women and 0.7% per annum for men. This increase is almost entirely attributable to population growth and ageing, with little evidence for any change in underlying cancer risk.
Since the implementation of the strategy commenced in 1997 over €103 million has been invested to date in the development of appropriate treatment and care services for people with cancer. Cancer services have benefited from this investment which far exceeds the £25 million requirement which was initially envisaged under the strategy. Amongst a range of other initiatives, this investment has enabled the funding of 80 additional consultant posts in key areas such as medical oncology, radiology, symptomatic breast disease, palliative care, histopathology and haematology, together with support staff.
This year a total of €27.3 million was provided for the maintenance and development of cancer services, €23.55 million of which was allocated between all health boards. An additional €29 million is being allocated in 2003 for cancer services. This investment will ensure that next year we continue to address increasing demands in cancer services in such areas as oncology-haematology services, oncology drug treatments and symptomatic breast disease services.
In recognition of the need to further develop cancer services, the strategy has identified the need for the preparation of a new national cancer strategy. The NCS 2003 is being developed by the national cancer forum in conjunction with my Department. This strategy will set out the key investment areas to be targeted for the development of cancer services over the coming years and will make recommendations in relation to the organisation and structure of cancer services nationally.
Question No. 189 answered with Question No. 47.
