Cancer deaths to increase for a decade due to pandemic disruption, medics warn

Research carried out by the American National Cancer Institute found a six-month disruption to cancer services increases mortality for a decade. File photo

The risk of dying from cancer could increase for the next 10 years unless action is taken now, a Cork-based oncologist has said.

The disruption caused by the pandemic to screening and diagnostics is likely to have a significant impact in the coming years. Pre-pandemic, urgent referrals for colonoscopies were seen within a month. Now, 60% are waiting over three months.