Understanding the challenges of cancer and socio-economic inequality
This report demonstrates that people on low incomes and marginalised groups are disproportionately affected by inequalities in cancer care provision in Ireland. Drawing on interview data and a roundtable with key practitioners, it outlines the barriers experienced from early self-diagnosis to post-treatment phases in their cancer pathways and to what extent they are supported by services.
To reduce socio-economic inequalities in cancer care, services need to provide more financial and psychological support; develop better integration between hospital and primary care and build greater capacity in primary care in deprived areas. This includes expanding cancer prevention and early diagnosis interventions (including using broader ways of screening); investing in localised and community facing services and fostering relationships between marginalised groups and local primary care.
Finally, investment is needed, in line with the public health promotion of healthier lifestyles, in developing amenities in deprived areas for post-treatment recovery.
Watch the report launch back here