Ireland’s Cancer Gap needs to be closed - that’s the message on World Cancer Day.

Screening programmes and early intervention have led to an overall reduction in deaths from the disease and survival rates are improving.

But access to treatment is still a problem for patients in deprived areas.

The Irish Cancer Society says people in some of the poorest parts of Dublin are almost twice as likely to die from the disease than someone living in an affluent area.

Head of Advocacy and Services, Donal Buggy, says that’s Ireland’s Cancer Gap:

Cancer survivor and Irish Cancer Society volunteer, John Langton, was 54 when he was diagnosed with stage 4 head and neck cancer. He says thankfully the outcomes for many patients like him are positive:

Tackling obesity is now the biggest challenge to the prevention of new cancers, with between 15-20% of diagnoses weight-related.

John says he has taken up running since he got the all clear and has not looked back:The Irish Cancer Society says political action is needed to ensure fair access to treatment for all Irish people.

Donal Buggy, says the Cancer Gap needs to be closed:

*John Langton is a volunteer at Survivors Supporting Survivors

For more information call the Irish Cancer Society's National Cancer Helpline is 1800 200 700 or email helpline@irishcancer.ie