NHS cancer checks have topped three million in a year for the first time, more than doubling in the last decade.
A new analysis has revealed that between March 2023 and 2024, there were 3,035,698 urgent cancer referrals for patients. In the same period ten years ago, March 2013-2014, there were 1,335,350 NHS cancer checks.
It is easier to treat cancer at an earlier stage, and now, more cancers than ever before are being caught at stages one and two.
In February alone, more than a quarter of a million NHS cancer checks were performed, an increase of more than 10% compared to the same month last year.
Last week, the NHS exceeded its 28-day faster diagnosis target for the first time. More than three-quarters of people received the all-clear or a definitive diagnosis within four weeks.
NHS efforts to tackle long waits for cancer treatments
Having cancer checks at an all-time high plays an important part in getting more cancers detected early.
NHS staff are continuing to help diagnose more cancers and tackle the longest waits for cancer treatment.
The NHS has also pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, with plans to increase HPV vaccine and screening uptake.
Professor Peter Johnson, NHS clinical director for cancer, said: “Cancer caught early gives people a much better chance of successful treatment – this is why we have a huge focus on finding new ways to reach people in their communities – from lung trucks and liver vans to community diagnostic centres.
“Every year, we are seeing new treatments and technology coming through for patients, so while I know that coming forward isn’t always easy and people worry about the outcome, I’d really encourage anyone who has a symptom that might be cancer to get checked without delay.”
‘Survival rates are improving across almost all types of cancer’
The earlier the cancer is found, the better the chances of a positive outcome. Because of this, the news that the NHS is delivering a record number of cancer checks over the last year is welcomed.
Health Minister Andrew Stephenson said: “We are committed to seeing and treating cancer patients through earlier diagnosis and improving survival rates, and have invested record funding into cancer support, including £2.3bn for 160 Community Diagnostic Centres to make it even easier to access local support.
“Thanks to these kinds of innovations, cancer screening programmes, and measures to help people quit smoking, survival rates are improving across almost all types of cancer.”
