Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour)
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599. To ask the Minister for Health if his Department has carried out an analysis of the number of cancers missed due to Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41256/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Cancer diagnostic and treatment  services continued throughout the Covid pandemic in line with Government prioritisation.  However, the number of people coming forward to their GPs, being referred to Cancer Rapid Access Clinics and attending these clinics decreased significantly in mid-March to May due to the fears in regard to Covid, and the reaction of people to restrictions in place at that time.   

Cancers diagnosed in Rapid Access Clinics to end September 2020 stood at 4,088 - approx 90% of the comparable figure in 2019.  This reduction does not arise from ‘missed cancers’ (cancers not being detected), rather they arise from less people presenting for diagnosis.

Latest data shows a recovery in the numbers of people presenting in primary care, and in attendances at Cancer Rapid Access Clinics. In September, the total number of attendances at Rapid Access Clinics amounted to 4,440, an increase on the same month last year.

The full impact of Covid-19 on cancer survival rates and outcomes for patients may not be known for some years. 

Meanwhile, an important message to everyone now is that, if you have any concerns about cancer please go to your GP. Our cancer diagnostic and treatment services are open, and our healthcare staff will provide any necessary care.