Ireland needs to bolster efforts in clinical trials for cancer care

DUBLIN, Ireland: Ireland's lagging status in clinical trials for cancer treatment has been highlighted by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly during a conference aimed at enhancing US-European collaboration in combating cancer.

Donnelly, addressing the gathering of healthcare experts in Dublin, emphasized the need for Ireland to bolster its efforts in cancer care, noting deficiencies in clinical trial infrastructure and the absence of unique patient identifiers.

"We talk a good talk in clinical trials. The reality is we don't have the infrastructure we need," Donnelly remarked, highlighting the importance of adequate e-health systems and supportive infrastructure.

"We should not be laggards in clinical trials, we are one of the wealthiest most advanced countries anywhere in the world."

"We have a massive pharmaceutical industry here, we have a massive biotech industry here and we have a big digital hub."

"We have all the bits we need, and so, shortly, I will be bringing forward a new health information bill that will have the unique patient identifiers," Donnelly asserted, calling for increased participation in research networks.

The Joint Euro-American Forum on Cancer, hosted by Ireland's Department of Health, the All-Island Cancer Research Institute, and the National Cancer Control Program, focused on addressing care inequalities.

In response to questions about geographic disparities in cancer service access, Donnelly acknowledged global challenges but affirmed the Department of Health's commitment to balanced investment for optimal regional care.

Emphasizing the effectiveness of dedicated cancer centers as part of the national strategy, Donnelly noted a notable increase in cancer survivorship rates.

The All-Island Cancer Research Institute has played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among academic institutions in Ireland, which has resulted in enhanced research and improved patient outcomes.

Professor William Gallagher highlighted the health benefits of transnational collaboration facilitated by the Good Friday Agreement, underscoring the impact on clinical trial participation and access to innovative treatments.

"Over 35,000 patients were able to participate in clinical trials that would not have happened if that tripartite consortium had not come together," he said.

"That has had a significant impact in terms of access to new and innovative treatments."