New research has revealed the quality of treatment for cancer patients in Northern Ireland has improved, despite the number of cases increasing.
Launched in June by the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry (NICR) at Queen’s University, the reports examine cancer care and outcomes for patients diagnosed with either prostate, breast or colorectal cancer between 1996 and 2006, across NI. These together account for over 3000 cancers each year.
The reports highlight the need for continued work to prevent these diseases, but points to improvements such as more centralised treatment, closer working between clinicians, early diagnosis and better treatment options – all of which have had a significant impact on positive patient outcomes.
Dr Anna Gavin, director of the NICR and co-author of the reports, said: “We have excellent facilities at the Cancer Centre and cancer units and there is now a more joined-up approach to patient care with better communications between healthcare professionals and their patients and an increased use of multidisciplinary team meetings.”
Sarah James, professional officer for radiotherapy at the SoR, added: “This research is really good news for cancer patients in Northern Ireland; it is proof that their outlook is improving even though there is a rise in the number of new cases.
"The plans for a new satellite radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin from 2015 will also improve access for patients in the longer term.”
For further information, visit the N. Ireland Cancer Registry website.
