14/03/2025
Today is National Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Day, and on behalf of NICaN and the Cancer Programme Team, we’re excited to spotlight the incredible work of Cancer CNSs across Northern Ireland in our first ‘NICaN News’ bulletin.
Years of evaluation have firmly established CNSs as vital members of the multidisciplinary team, driving enhancements in cancer care. With their expertise, they assess, diagnose, and treat individuals living with cancer while also contributing to education, audit and research.
Each year approximately 10,000 people are diagnosed with Cancer. Responsive surgery, advances in treatment and lifestyle adaptations enable an increasing number of people to live well. Data from end of 2021 identified 71,412 people living between 1 – 10 years following diagnosis. As the first point of contact for individuals receiving news of their diagnosis the CNS ensures continuity of care throughout the unique cancer journey for each person, taking on a wide range of responsibilities, including holistic assessments, providing specialist advice, managing symptoms, and connecting patients to essential services.
In this inaugural edition of NICaN News, we are thrilled to celebrate this remarkable workforce and share inspiring insights about their invaluable contributions to the lives of those affected by cancer. Let’s honour their dedication and commitment to improving cancer care!