Three out of four vulnerable cancer patients say they are cutting down on heating in the freezing weather because of the cost of living energy crisis.
The shocking finding comes from a survey from the Irish Cancer Society which also shows that patients are concerned about having enough cash to put petrol in their cars.
And one in five of patients are putting off going to their doctor or hospital because of money worries.
The research shows that over half of patients are fearful of keeping up with festive season costs amid rising expenses at a time when patients’ income can take a huge hit.
On average cancer patients are more worried about the cost of heating their home compared to others, with three in four saying they have reduced their spending on heating compared to 60% among the general public.
Some 70% of patients have also cut back on petrol or diesel costs.
Home heating is important for households coping with a cancer diagnosis, with patients potentially spending more time at home between treatments while they are off work.
Patients are also particularly reliant on fuel as they travel to hospital appointments, sometimes over long distances.
Considering patients also face average out-of-pocket medical expenses of €200 per month, the combined result is a huge hit to their personal finances.
Worryingly, one in five cancer patients say they chose not to attend their GP or hospital for a healthcare concern due to fears over the cost involved.
Irish Cancer Society Director of Advocacy Rachel Morrogh said: “We are seeing a huge amount of anxiety among people affected by cancer as they worry about heating their homes and paying for Christmas, and we have received 30% more enquiries on financial issues this year compared to 2021.
“We are hearing that cancer patients have reduced what they spend on food so that they can pay for transport to treatment.
“Other families have had to stop their children’s sports activities because the money just isn’t there to keep them going.
“Another patient told us he wasn’t sure he had enough fuel to get to treatment and cut back on the number of meals he ate so he could save money.
“This is the reality of having cancer in Ireland today.
“Despite the welcome decision by Government to abolish hospital charges, families across the country are having to face grave choices due to the cost of cancer.
“No cancer patient should ever have to reduce the number of meals they have just so they can afford to get to treatment.
“More supports to protect patients from the costs of having cancer are needed.
“These include providing a medical card to every cancer patient, removing hospital car parking charges, abolishing prescription charges and making benefits more openly available to those who find themselves in such an incredibly difficult position.
“Anyone who would like information and advice on financial issues associated with cancer, including on welfare entitlements that they may be eligible for, is encouraged to contact our Freephone Support Line on 1800 200 700.”
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