Cancer Treatment Wait Times risking lives

Unacceptable Variations in Cancer Treatment Wait Times Are Putting Lives at Risk!

An exclusive analysis for BBC News by Cancer Research UK has revealed shocking disparities in cancer treatment wait times across England. Patients with head and neck cancers are among those facing the longest delays, with just over half being seen within the target 62 days. In contrast, patients with blood, bone marrow, and skin cancers are far more likely to start treatment on time.

Read the BBC article here.

These aren’t just statistics – lives are at risk. Research shows that a four-week delay to surgery can increase the risk of dying by 6-8% for many cancers. It’s heart breaking to think that while patients wait, their chances of survival decrease.

NHS surgeon and independent peer Lord Darzi has rightly called out these delays as unacceptable. The numbers are staggering:

300,000 cancer patients in England will miss treatment targets over the next five years unless performance improves.

Head and Neck cancer crisis in the UK

While NHS England has made progress, more must be done to address these dangerous waits. Patients with head and neck cancers cannot afford to be left behind.

“At Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK, we’re tackling this crisis through our RACE initiative—focusing on:

• Research
• Awareness
• Collaboration
• Patient Experience

But we need your help! Join our RACE against time by donating, fundraising, or spreading awareness. Every action makes a difference.

⏳ Every day counts when it comes to cancer – let’s make sure no one has to wait.

💬 Join us in demanding better care! Share this page, spread the word, and explore our website today to see how you can get involved.”

Tamara Kahn, CEO, Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK

#EndTheWait #CancerCareNow #HeadAndNeckCancer #CancerAwareness #OracleHNC #CancerResearchUK #RACEInitiative

If you’re affected by head and neck cancer or worried about a symptom

Head and neck cancers often go unnoticed, largely because many people are unaware of the signs and symptoms. At Oracle, we urge everyone to take a moment to perform a simple self-check. It could save your life. Visit headneckcheck.com to learn how. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

Additionally, HPV vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of certain types of head and neck cancers. By protecting yourself, you’re taking an essential step in reducing your risk.

See also patient stories to hear about other people diagnosed with Head and Neck Cancers.

Have you got a symptom, are you being diagnosed, going through treatment, or a friend/carer of someone who is?

Please join our private Facebook Group to get support and advice from fellow patients and carers.