More than half of cancer patients in the NHS now wait longer than the official 28-day Faster Diagnosis Standard. These delays reveal a growing crisis in cancer care. Experts warn that lives are at risk when patients do not receive timely results.
What the Figures Show
Analysis shows that only about 50% of patients diagnosed with cancer get their results within 28 days after urgent referral. This is a sharp drop from almost 57% just a few years ago. Certain cancers, such as prostate, kidney, and head and neck, have some of the longest delays. NHS England data confirm the trend of missed targets. ([the-independent.com](https://www.the-independent.com/news/uk/home-news/nhs-cancer-diagnosis-target-time-half-b2823978.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
Targets for Treatment Are Also Missed
The NHS aims for 85% of people to start treatment within 62 days of referral. That goal is not being met. Many patients now wait longer than two months to begin essential treatment. Reports from Medscape highlight staff shortages and bottlenecks as major causes.
Which Cancers and Regions Struggle Most?
Urological cancers are among the most affected. Patients often wait more than six weeks to receive results. Performance also varies widely across NHS trusts, with some regions falling much further behind. The Guardian recently revealed that over 500,000 patients in England have waited longer than 62 days for vital cancer treatment in the past decade.
Why Delays Put Patients at Risk
Early cancer detection saves lives. Longer waits mean cancers are often diagnosed at a later stage. This reduces treatment choices and lowers survival chances. Macmillan Cancer Support stresses that even short delays can change outcomes for patients and families.
What Needs to Change
- Hire more staff in pathology, radiology, and oncology, and update diagnostic equipment.
- Provide enough resources so urgent referral pathways work as planned.
- Publish waiting time data by cancer type and region to increase transparency.
- Raise awareness so people report symptoms early and follow-ups happen without delay.
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Disclaimer: This article is for information only. It does not replace medical advice. Always speak with a qualified healthcare professional about cancer diagnosis and treatment concerns.
