Over 74,000 Cancer Patients in England Faced Treatment Delays in 2024

Cancer charities urge UK Government to address long waits as NHS fails to meet treatment time targets for nearly a decade.

In 2024, 62.2% of urgent cancer patients in England began treatment within 62 days, far below the NHS target of 85%.
More than 74,000 patients waited over 62 days to start cancer treatment, with over 11% waiting over 104 days.
Patients with gastrointestinal and lung cancers faced some of the longest delays, with 44% and 59% respectively starting treatment late.
Cancer Research UK and other charities are calling for increased investment in staff, equipment, and reforms as part of a new national cancer plan.
While some progress was noted, including record numbers of early cancer diagnoses, experts warn delays continue to jeopardize patient outcomes and survival rates.