Irish Thoracic Society Publishes Respiratory Health Report
- Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in Ireland.
- While lung cancer continues to cause more cancer deaths in Ireland than any other malignancy, rates are showing gradual improvement due to early diagnosis initiatives and rapid access...
- Following closely behind is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, where inflamed bronchial tubes cause airways to narrow.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in Ireland. The Irish Thoracic Society published these findings in its Respiratory Health of the Nation 2026 report on Friday, September 25, timed to coincide with World Lung Day. The publication outlines major ongoing challenges in diagnosing and treating respiratory illnesses nationwide, highlighting the heavy toll taken by lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and rising rates of obstructive sleep apnoea.
Lung Cancer Persists as Ireland’s Deadliest Malignancy
Gradual Progress Amid High Cancer Toll
While lung cancer continues to cause more cancer deaths in Ireland than any other malignancy, rates are showing gradual improvement due to early diagnosis initiatives and rapid access cancer centres.
The Hidden Burden of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Following closely behind is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, where inflamed bronchial tubes cause airways to narrow. According to the report, COPD represents a major public health burden, causing more deaths than any non-respiratory cancer. The majority of these cases stem from cigarette smoking.
New Threats from E-Cigarette Use
Health professionals are also tracking new complications. Vaping has emerged as a significant concern, with clinicians observing cases of acute lung injury, asthma exacerbations, and other severe respiratory issues linked to e-cigarette use.
Obesity and the Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Crisis
Obstructive sleep apnoea is increasing nationwide alongside rising obesity rates, as central obesity around the neck can narrow a patient’s upper airway. An estimated 500,000 people in Ireland are likely affected by the condition, though the vast majority remain undiagnosed.
Remote Diagnostics Transforming Patient Care
Untreated sleep apnoea leads to disrupted night sleep and daytime somnolence, raising the risk of workplace and road traffic accidents while straining personal relationships. Chronic sleep disruption also carries an increased risk of high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and memory impairment. Modern diagnostic practices have shifted significantly, allowing clinicians to study the effects of sleep disorders remotely in patients’ homes rather than requiring traditional overnight admissions to specialist sleep clinics.