Watson backs fresh '˜vision for cancer'

South Antrim MLA Adrian Cochrane-Watson has welcomed calls by leading cancer charity, Cancer Focus Northern Ireland for the Executive to declare a fresh vision for cancer and end the complacency that accepts poorer outcomes for local citizens.

Attending the Stormont launch of Cancer Focus NI’s manifesto last week, Mr Cochrane-Watson said: “I am concerned that local outcomes are on a par with those in some eastern European countries regarding certain cancers.

Patients in Northern Ireland continue to be denied access to life extending cancer drugs that are available in other parts of the UK; cancer waiting times have worsened in recent quarters; and the number of cases of cancer are projected to rise considerably between now and 2035.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I fully support Cancer Focus NI in calling on the NI Executive to declare a fresh vision for cancer, one that has ambitious and measurable targets, and that will take the fight against cancer forward in Northern Ireland.”

Related topics: