Written answer
Cancer Services
The current strategy supports targeted genetic testing, while its forthcoming evaluation will determine whether access to multi-biomarker next-generation sequencing should expand.
4077. Deputy Peter Roche asked the Minister for Health the consideration being given in the development of the next national cancer strategy to expanding access to multi-biomarker testing using next-generation sequencing technology; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [59106/26]
Comment on this
The Government is committed to the implementation of the National Cancer Strategy, supported by the reforms and investment delivered under Sláintecare. We have seen significant progress on the implementation of the Strategy since its launch in July, 2017.
My Department has invested heavily in the National Cancer Strategy and associated initiatives in recent years, enabling the further development of our national cancer services and leading to improved outcomes for cancer patients.
National Cancer Registry of Ireland data shows substantial progress being made to control the four major cancers (prostate, breast, lung and colorectal), with mortality rates falling or stabilising for each. These comprise over half of all invasive tumours (not including rarely fatal non-melanoma skin cancers).
The National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 identifies the need for genomic testing and hereditary cancer care management, and the National Cancer Control Programme's 2023 Hereditary Cancer Model of Care highlights the need to improve access to genetic testing for patients with cancer and their relatives.
Where a cancer patient is suspected to have an underlying cancer predisposition syndrome, they are typically offered multi-gene panels to look for changes in relevant genes and, if identified, close family members may also be tested. The HSE advises that this approach is in line with international best practice, rather than through population screening programmes.
It is essential that we continue to build on our investment and progress. As the current National Cancer Strategy comes to its conclusion, an evaluation on the current National Cancer Strategy will be carried out later this year. The evaluation will be carried out by working closely with key stakeholders such as the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme and the National Cancer Registry of Ireland. Stakeholders also include patients and their families, which includes my Department's Cancer Patient Advisory Committee, healthcare professionals, government agencies, research institutions, advocacy groups, and the pharmaceutical industry, among others.
The conclusion of this evaluation process will inform next steps to be taken.