Charities warn today, more than 400,000 people could miss an early cancer diagnosis over the next decade due to “continuing failures” to address gaps in the NHS.
The head of Cancer Research UK said that UK patients face the “very worrying expectation” that survival rates will decline unless staffing and equipment shortages are addressed.
They say that by 2032, 78% of people are expected to be diagnosed with stage one or second cancer. Calculations show that if we don’t evolve to achieve this, 440,720 people could be diagnosed by the end of the next decade, limiting treatment options and shortening survival.
Calculations show that 440,720 people could be diagnosed in the next decade, which could limit treatment options and shorten survival.
The charity is leading calls for a better cancer strategy in a letter signed by more than 50 cancer organizations.
Charities warn today, more than 400,000 people may miss an early cancer diagnosis over the next decade due to “consistent failures” to address gaps in the NHS (archive photo)
They also want to address staff and equipment shortages and meet cancer waiting time targets.
The letter was submitted at the request of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare for evidence. It will help shape the government’s ten-year cancer plan for the UK.
CRUK CEO Michelle Mitchell said last night: “The numbers are clear: Without leadership and more action, large numbers of people with cancer will be diagnosed late when their chances of survival are much lower.
The failure of the government to continue to address the chronic shortage of NHS staff and equipment means people have been waiting too long.
“Furthermore, following the end of the pandemic, we now face the prospect of a deeply disturbing setback.”
This month’s data showed that in January, the percentage of patients who see a specialist within two weeks if their doctor suspects cancer fell by 75 percent to its lowest ever level.
A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Welfare said: “We know the pandemic is having a serious impact on people with cancer and we are investing a record amount of money in the NHS to address the cure backlog.
“We aim to be a global leader in cancer care, and this year we will develop a 10-year cancer plan with a focus on early detection and innovative treatment.
“We want to hear the opinions of people of all backgrounds to help shape this vital work and lessen the heartbreak of losing a loved one from this terrible disease.”
Source: Daily Mail
I am Anne Johnson and I work as an author at the Fashion Vibes. My main area of expertise is beauty related news, but I also have experience in covering other types of stories like entertainment, lifestyle, and health topics. With my years of experience in writing for various publications, I have built strong relationships with many industry insiders. My passion for journalism has enabled me to stay on top of the latest trends and changes in the world of beauty.
