The Report sets out the progress achieved on the improvement of cancer services and the delivery of better outcomes for patients, as set out in the 52 recommendations of the National Cancer Strategy. The Report measures the achievement of these recommendations against the key performance indicators, which focus on reducing preventable cancer, promoting early detection, and driving improvements in treatment and after-care for cancer patients.

Recommendation 1: Section 11 of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 came into operation in January 2022 and relates to Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP). MUP sets a floor price below which alcohol cannot be sold and is a targeted measure, aimed at those who drink in a harmful and hazardous manner, and designed to prevent the sale of alcohol at very cheap prices. The section sets a minimum unit price of 10c per gram of alcohol.

In Budget 2023, Government removed VAT from all Nicotine Replacement Therapy. Work has continued on the Public Health (Tobacco & Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill. Publication of the Bill is envisaged for spring 2023 with an expectation that it will be enacted later in the year. The Bill will prohibit the sale of tobacco and nicotine inhaling products from vending machines, temporary or movable premises and events intended for children. It will also introduce a licencing system for the retail sale of tobacco and nicotine inhaling products, prohibit the sale of nicotine inhaling products to and by those under 18 and prohibit the advertising of nicotine inhaling products in cinemas, on public transport and near schools.

Recommendation 2: Results of the National Survey on Cancer Awareness and Attitudes were published in September 2022. Alcohol, tobacco, and skin protection HSELanD e-learning modules were developed for health and social care professional. Other areas of work included a social media cancer risk reduction awareness campaign, development and maintenance of resources on the NCCP cancer prevention webpage; coordination of the Irish Cancer Prevention Network, which has now surpassed 1,000 members, including world cancer day activities and supporting national awareness days. Implementation of the National Skin Cancer Prevention Plan 2019-2022 continued.