- The number of NHS cancer patients facing delays of over 100 days for treatment has tripled over the past five years, with one in eight patients enduring wait times in 2022.
- This surge in delays has been attributed to a lack of staff, beds, and hospital equipment, putting extra pressure on the health service and impacting patient outcomes.
- Health experts warn that unless urgent plans are made to address these delays, the NHS will not be able to cope with the increasing demand for cancer treatments.
- The rise in long wait times has been most pronounced among people aged 60-69, with nearly half of delays in 2022 being due to staffing or equipment shortages.
- More research is needed to fully understand the reasons behind the increase in long wait times for cancer treatment, as experts emphasize the importance of a long-term strategy to improve cancer care in the UK.
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Oncology, Public Health & Prevention