GP Referral Pathway for Suspected Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer is the second most common cancer in men and women in Ireland. Over 2,500 cases are diagnosed each year; 1,500 men and 1,000 women. It accounts for 12.2% of all invasive cancers diagnosed and for 11.8% of cancer deaths. The median age at diagnosis is 70-74 years; more than 90% are over 50 years at diagnosis. 60% of patients are diagnosed at late stage. the risk of developing colorectal cancer up to age 74 is 5% in males and 3% in females. The 5-year survival rate is 62.6%.
