According to NHS England’s recently published Cancer Waiting Times data for July 2021, while the number of Londoners being urgently referred to investigate cancer symptoms or starting their first cancer treatment has improved on 2020 levels, there is still a long way to go to overcome the damage caused by the pandemic.
The number of people being seen by a specialist for suspected cancer in London following an urgent referral by their GP was 36,154 in July 2021. This was 9% higher than the pre-Covid-19 average.
However, the total number of people who have seen a specialist for suspected cancer in London since the pandemic began in March 2020 is still more than 75,000 lower than expected (a drop of 13%).
The number of people starting treatment for cancer in London in July 2021 was 3,337. This was 7% higher than the pre-pandemic average.
However, the total number of people starting cancer treatment in London since the start of the pandemic is still more than 4,600 lower than expected (a drop of 9%).
Emma Tingley, Head of Partnerships at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:
“Our healthcare system is gearing up to make up for lost time caused by the pandemic but we still have a long way to go. As more people come into the NHS for cancer diagnosis and treatment, it’s vital the Government urgently invests in cancer services, including the guaranteed use of additional private sector capacity. The funding announced this week is a start, but a long-term investment plan is needed to clear the backlog caused by Covid-19 and ensure everybody who is diagnosed with cancer receives the care they need.”
“Healthcare professionals and staff across the capital work tirelessly to offer the best possible care, support people and save lives. Macmillan supports professionals and thousands of Londoners with cancer or cancer symptoms who may have faced disruption to their treatment or appointments.”
For support, contact our specially trained nurses and experts on the Macmillan Support Line, 0808 808 00 00 (8am-8pm, 7 days/week) or visit macmillan.org.uk.
