Violet-Anne Wynne (Clare, Sinn Fein)
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232. To ask the Minister for Health the steps that have been taken to alleviate the situation whereby women have been diagnosed with breast cancer recently and have a more advanced diagnosis as a result of screening being unavailable over the Covid-19 restrictions given that October 2021 is breast cancer awareness month; the actions being taken to assist these women and their recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50925/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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BreastCheck, the national breast cancer screening programme, is currently operating and inviting women for screening. Due to the impact of Covid-19 and the pauses in screening in 2020 and again earlier this year, BreastCheck appointments have been delayed. It will take approximately 3 years to get through this current screening round when it normally takes about 2 years; however this is still within international norms.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and BreastCheck is running a campaign which encourages women to be breast aware, know the symptoms of breast cancer and the risk factors for developing breast cancer. The campaign also explains about the impact of Covid-19 on services and provides advice for women about managing their screening appointments.

The National Action Plan on Covid-19 identified the continued provision of cancer care as a priority. Cancer services continue to operate in line with guidance issued by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), with a particular focus on urgent and time-sensitive cases.

As part of Budget 2021, an extra €20m was allocated for the continued implementation of the National Cancer Strategy this year. Additional funding of €12m has also been allocated this year for the restoration of cancer services to 95% of 2019 (pre-Covid) levels. This funding is being used to support hospitals in addressing backlogs, extending clinic times, providing additional clinics, increasing diagnostic capacity and providing locum/temporary support.

The NCCP is continuing to closely monitor trends in numbers coming forward to diagnostic services, and the level of attendances for appointments for treatment.

- From January–September this year, GP e-referrals for breast cancer are at 130% of 2019 (pre-Covid) activity; and   

- Attendances at urgent Symptomatic Breast Disease clinics from January–August 2021 (16,211) are at 115% of 2019 levels (14,127).  

An important message to everyone now is that, if you have any concerns about cancer, please go to your GP who will arrange appropriate follow-up care. Our cancer diagnostic and treatment services are open, and our healthcare staff will provide any necessary care.

I have now secured a further €20m in Budget 2022 to progress the delivery of the National Cancer Strategy and this will have a significant impact on access to cancer diagnostics, treatment and support to patients across their cancer journey.