2 Jun 2021, 17:01
The Joint Committee on Health met with representatives from the Irish Cancer Society, the Irish Hospital Consultants Association and the Irish Medical Organisation today to discuss the impacts of Covid-19 on cancer care.
The witnesses noted that there has been a significant decline in the number of patients presenting for cancer diagnostics since the onset of the pandemic, with research showing that one in four people had not gone to their GP with health concerns in 2020, and one in six have not contacted their GP with concerns this year.
The witnesses stressed the need for individuals to contact their GPs as a matter of urgency if they are experiencing any symptoms of cancer.
Speaking on behalf of the Committee, Cathaoirleach Seán Crowe TD said: “The Committee heard worrying evidence today that people who are experiencing symptoms of cancer are delaying seeking medical advice due to the pandemic. It is vitally important that anyone who is having symptoms or is concerned about cancer in any way contact their GP without delay. The earlier that cancer is detected the better the outcome. GPs are open and are seeing patients, and they can refer individuals for the appropriate diagnostic services if required.”
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