The most recent Cancer Waiting Times data was published by NHS England last Thursday and there is still a long way to go to overcome the damage caused by the pandemic to cancer care in London.
Since the pandemic began, the total number of Londoners who have seen a specialist for suspected cancer is more than 64,000 lower than expected and the total number of people starting cancer treatment is more than 4,400 lower than expected.
According to the most recent data, cancer referrals in February 2022 were 3% up on pre-pandemic rates, but first cancer treatments were down by 5%. So, although there are signs of improvement, the cancer care backlog is still there and the NHS in London would need to work at 110% capacity for 15 months to clear the backlog of first cancer treatments, according to the latest Macmillan analysis.
Emma Tingley, Head of Partnerships at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:
“There is clearly still a lot of work to be done to get cancer services back on track and tackle the backlog in London. Thousands of people are still facing unacceptably long waits for a cancer diagnosis and treatment. The Government must urgently provide the long-term investment needed to grow and support the cancer workforce, which was severely overstretched even before the pandemic.
“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 be facing 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.
