Once again, the Journal of Thoracic Oncology (JTO) from IASLC throws its spotlight on a GLCC member nation.

This time, lung cancer healthcare provision in the Republic of Ireland is outlined, in a paper by Rachel J. Keogh, MBBCH, BAO, MSc , Martin P. Barr, PhD et al.

To quote the introduction:

‘’The National Cancer Registry Ireland (NCRI) works under the auspices of the Department of Health to capture patient data and communicate findings to improve outcomes for people with cancer in Ireland. According to the NCRI, lung cancer (LC) is the third most common cancer in Ireland accounting for 2672 new cases per year between 2018 and 2020.

‘’The annual incidence was 1457 in men and 1214 in females. The number of LC cases is also increasing with an annual projected rise to 3713 cases (+131%) for males and 2313 (+105%) for females by 2045. This would amount to an increase to 5450 cases (+119%) for both sexes combined.

‘’Counties with the highest incidence ratio are Dublin and Carlow:

‘’Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Ireland, accounting for 1083 deaths annually between 2018 and 2020. The 5-year overall survival for LC has increased from 10% in 2003 to 24% in 2018.’’

Aoife McNamara, Education and Engagement Manager with the Irish Cancer Society, describes the article as an ‘’Excellent overview of lung cancer care in Ireland, highlighting past successes and current challenges.’’

You can read the JTO paper here.