Cancer cases set to rise up to 45%

Thousands more people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer by the end of the decade due to an expected 34%-45% surge in the life-threatening condition.

However, despite the growing risk, increased public awareness, and ongoing improvements in how lethal illness is treated mean death rates are continuing to fall.

A report by the National Cancer Registry has found that despite discomfort in discussing the subject, colorectal cancer is becoming an increasingly common risk to Irish health.

According to the study, between 1994 and 2010 the number of men diagnosed with the condition rose from 983 per year to 1,343, with the number of women diagnosed also increasing from 769 to 955.

As a direct result of an ageing population, poor eating habits, smoking, and drinking addictions and a lack of exercise, the report warned this trend is almost certain to continue for the rest of the decade.

By 2020, the study’s authors have predicted that colorectal cancer rates will have risen a further 34% in women and 45% in men.

The situation means the condition is likely to continue to be among the three most common cancers in Ireland, behind breast and prostate cancer, with improved funding for HSE cancer services required.

Despite this concern, the report has noted a significant reduction in deaths from the condition due to an improvement in early detection of potential problems. While up to 900 people are dying every year from colorectal cancer, since 1994 mortality rates have fallen by just under 2% per year. This trend is particularly apparent in elderly men, who, the report said, are among the most at risk age groups.

According to the report, in the 16 years between 1994 and 2010 two thirds of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer were over the age of 65, with just 11% of women and 14% of men diagnosed under 55.

While the nation’s colorectal cancer rate is only marginally higher than the European average, areas like Co Cork continue to have worse rates than other parts of the country.

Among the most common contributory factors for developing the illness are smoking, alcohol, obesity, processed foods, and a diet based too much on red meat.

In addition, people who have a first degree relative with colorectal cancer are twice as likely to be diagnosed with the same condition.

The study’s authors have stressed that early detection is key to addressing potentially serious health concerns related to colorectal cancer.

This includes surgery, chemotherapy and early detection linked to ongoing public awareness campaigns targeting specific groups.