Urgent Call for Head and Neck Cancer Treatment Centre in Galway

Government officials in Ireland are being urged to establish a dedicated treatment centre for head and neck cancers in Galway. Senator Gerard Craughwell, a representative from Salthill, highlighted the pressing need for improved oncology dental services during a recent session in the Seanad. He emphasized that the lack of accessible treatment options is putting patients at significant risk and adversely affecting their survival rates.

Currently, most patients diagnosed with head and neck cancers must travel to Dublin for treatment, while limited services are available in Cork. This situation, according to Senator Craughwell, not only compromises the quality of life for these individuals but also contributes to lower survival rates. He stated, “Time is not a luxury that cancer patients can afford,” drawing from his personal experience as the father of a cancer patient.

The senator’s comments come at a critical time when the demand for specialized cancer care is on the rise. With over 2,000 new cases of head and neck cancers diagnosed annually in Ireland, the need for a local treatment centre has never been more urgent. Current travel requirements can lead to delays in treatment, which may worsen patient outcomes.

Senator Craughwell pointed out that the existing healthcare infrastructure is not equipped to meet the increasing demand for oncology services in the region. He argued that establishing a dedicated centre in Galway would alleviate the burden on patients and provide them with timely access to essential treatments.

The senator has called upon the government to take immediate action to address this healthcare gap. He is advocating for funding and resources to be allocated towards the development of this much-needed facility. By investing in local cancer treatment options, the government could significantly improve the lives of patients and enhance their chances of recovery.

The establishment of a head and neck cancer treatment centre in Galway would not only serve the local population but could also benefit patients from surrounding regions. This initiative aligns with broader healthcare goals aimed at improving cancer care accessibility across Ireland.

As discussions continue in the Seanad, the urgency for action grows. Patients and their families are hopeful that government representatives will prioritize this critical healthcare issue and take the necessary steps to establish a dedicated treatment centre in Galway.