The East Antrim MLA was responding to a recent Cancer Research UK report revealing cancer mortality rates are approximately 45% higher in the most deprived regions, resulting in around 630 additional deaths annually linked to socio-economic inequality.

"These statistics are deeply troubling and highlight a pressing health inequality in our society," said Mr. Donnelly.

"It's unacceptable individuals in our most deprived communities are disproportionately affected by cancer, leading to nearly two additional deaths each day.

"The strong correlation between smoking rates and lung cancer deaths in deprived areas underscores the urgent need for comprehensive tobacco control measures and public health education. Preventative strategies must be prioritised to address these avoidable risk factors. The Tobacco and Vapes Bill currently passing through Westminster, which the Assembly endorsed recently, is one of the most important decisions we can take in this respect. These measures would not lead to an unsustainable additional spend, instead they would save money by reducing pressures on our health service, and more importantly they would save lives.

"Early detection is crucial in improving cancer survival rates. I urge the Department of Health to work to ensure the introduction of a lung cancer screening program in Northern Ireland, in line with the UK National Screening Committee recommendations that lung cancer screening is extending to high-risk individuals aged 55 to 74 who currently smoke or have a history of smoking. This could lead to the early detection of approximately 140 additional lung cancer cases annually. We cannot afford to lag behind other regions, proactive measures are essential to reduce these stark inequalities.

"Tackling socio-economic deprivation is fundamental to improving health outcomes. A holistic approach, encompassing education, employment, housing, and tackling poverty, alongside health-specific initiatives, is necessary to bridge this unacceptable gap in cancer mortality rates. This will require a cross-departmental input, with co-operation between Health, Education, Economy and Communities.

“Alliance is committed to advocating for equitable outcomes in our health and social care service and will continue to press for immediate actions to address these critical public health concerns."