Mayo TD notes stark 12% disparity in breast cancer survival rates

Paul Lawless TD has raised a shocking statistic when it comes to cancer survival rates comparing public versus private health patients.

Figures released to Aontú from the Department of Health show a 12% disparity in the 5 year survival rates for women diagnosed with breast cancer in public hospitals, as opposed to those in private.

“This is a very distressing statistic, and it is shocking to think that 12 more women out of a 100 will die following diagnosis in a public hospital as opposed to those in a private hospital”.

“There is incredible stress on the health system and this is having a direct impact on patient outcomes. Information from The Irish Cancer Society shows that 3 out of 10 people in Connaught and Ulster are not confident they can easily access cancer diagnostic services.”

Lawless stressed the importance of early diagnosis and ensuring equality when it comes to healthcare support:

“Early diagnosis is key and a crucial determinant as to successful outcomes for patients. Once a patient is deemed fit for treatment then he or she should receive it as quickly as possible.

We need to provide the highest standard of care for these vulnerable people and an economic divide should not be a factor in whether a person lives or dies”.

“I was delighted to have the opportunity to speak to representatives of the Irish Cancer Society at their coffee morning in Leinster House today.

They stressed the importance of ongoing multi-annual support for the National Cancer Strategy and I am committed to supporting their work and fighting for better treatment services for every single patient regardless of their financial situation.”