According to the NHS England’s Cancer Waiting Times data published today, almost 400 fewer people in London saw a specialist for suspected cancer in May compared to the average pre-pandemic month.
This takes the overall number to around 81,500 fewer Londoners seeing a specialist for suspected cancer since the start of the pandemic (March 2020 – May 2021) compared to the average 2019 activity. This is an overall drop of 16%.
The current target of seeing a specialist in London within 2 weeks of an urgent GP referral has only been met in London in 4 out of the 15 months between March 2020 and May 2021.
Additionally, there are over 5,000 fewer patients that have started their first cancer treatment in London since the start of the pandemic (March 2020 – May 2021) compared to the average 2019 activity. This is an overall drop of 11%.
The target of starting first cancer treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat has only been met in London in 6 out of the 15 months between March 2020 and May 2021.
Emma Tingley, Macmillan Head of Partnerships for London, said:
“Every month we see fewer Londoners being added to the overall figure of those not being diagnosed or treated for cancer in time since the start of the pandemic. Also, many people living with cancer continue to face agonising changes and unacceptably long waits for treatment, which could impact their prognosis.
“Healthcare professionals and staff across the capital have been working and continue to work tirelessly to offer the best possible care but urgent action is needed to ensure people are diagnosed and treated for cancer as quickly as possible. It is vital that the Government invests in a long-term, fully-funded plan that will enable the NHS workforce to handle the significant challenges that loom ahead.”
Macmillan continues to support both professionals and people 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.
