We are a community of patients, survivors, volunteers, supporters, health and social care professionals and researchers. Together we are transforming the experiences and outcomes of people affected by cancer through our advocacy, support services and research.
It was estimated that in 2020 more than 45,000 people in Ireland were diagnosed with cancer or a related tumour. More people in Ireland are being diagnosed with cancer now than ever before. Our services and supports are more in demand and this will continue for the foreseeable future. The need for our work in research and advocacy is more important now as we try to find better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.
We can all do more to reduce our risk of getting cancer. Four in ten cancer cases are preventable. Yet many people are still unaware of cancer risk factors. This highlights the need to raise awareness about the causes of cancer and to provide services that support people to live healthier lives.
Being told you have cancer can be devastating. The good news is that many people go on to live long lives after a diagnosis. There are now more than 200,000 cancer survivors in Ireland. This means that there is a growing need for the support that the Irish Cancer Society provides for survivors.
