New data from the National Cancer Registry has suggested Irish men have a higher risk than women of getting cancer and of dying from it.

A new report highlights that men are almost one-third more likely to die of cancer than women.

It is estimated that about 35,440 invasive cancers were diagnosed annually during 2017-2019, or 23,890 cancers excluding the common but rarely fatal non-melanoma skin cancer.

The age-adjusted risk of developing cancer was about 22% higher for men than for women, overall, and also higher for most cancer types.

Trends and projections show that, when population aging is accounted for, rates have generally stabilised or even declined in recent years.

However, it says population growth and ageing will result in "substantial increase in the number of cases over coming decades" - potentially doubling by 2045.

Survival rates

Cancer is the most common cause of death in Ireland, accounting for almost 31% of deaths in 2016.

Lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer death in both sexes, accounting for 20% of cancer deaths in women and 22% in men.

The risk of dying of cancer was about 32% higher for men than for women.

While survival for Irish cancer patients continues to improve.

Five-year net survival for patients diagnosed during 2011-2015 averaged 63% for men and 60% for women - up from 39% in men and 46% in women diagnosed during 1994-1999.

Significant survival improvements are evident for most types of cancer.

Responding to the figures, Donal Buggy from the Irish Cancer Society said: "These figures could not be clearer.

"Men in Ireland are much more likely to get, and die from, cancer.

"An estimated 12,769 males are diagnosed with an invasive cancer each year, compared to just over 11,000 for women.

"When adjustments for age are made, this means an increased risk of getting cancer of almost a quarter."

He added: "If we look at mortality, the numbers are even more worrying.

"The report states that the risk of dying from cancer was about 32% higher for men than for women.

"It is vital that we all take collective action on it.

"Men's health needs a renewed focus and funding by the State for cancer prevention programmes.

"We also need further research into what the barriers are for men when it comes to choosing healthy behaviours or accessing healthcare and screening."

Anyone who has concerns about cancer can call the Irish Cancer Society's Cancer Nurseline for free on 1800-200-700