Cancer deaths in the UK could increase by 17% by 2029 when compared with the last five years, a charity has warned. Cancer Research UK also projects new diagnoses to jump by more than a fifth during the same period.
Experts said the statistics shared exclusively with the PA news agency highlight the “devastating impact” cancer continues to have on people across the UK. They also urged the Government to develop a long-term strategy for the disease, with a focus on funding research, early diagnosis and prevention.
Analysis by Cancer Research UK suggests there will be about 912,000 deaths from all cancers combined in the UK by the end of the Labour Government’s first parliamentary term in 2029. During the same period, the charity estimates there will also be around 2.2 million new cancer diagnoses, a hike of 22%.
Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: “These numbers highlight the devastating impact cancer continues to have on patients across the UK. Behind each worrying statistic is someone who could lose precious moments with the friends, family and loved ones they leave behind.”
Ms Mitchell called for “bold action” from the Government to help people live longer, healthier lives. “Decades of research have meant that cancer survival has doubled in the past 50 years, but this progress is slowing,” she added.
“The UK Government must ensure they deliver on their commitments to tackle cancer and make the UK a world leader in cancer research and care. There are no quick fixes or easy solutions bold action is needed to help people live longer, better lives.”
“The Government should develop a long-term strategy for cancer which funds research and innovation, prevents and diagnoses cancers earlier, and addresses strains on the NHS. We’re ready to work with political parties in all UK nations to transform cancer outcomes for the years to come.”
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “We have inherited a broken NHS. Too many cancer patients are waiting too long for treatment, and we are determined to change that.”
“As part of our mission to get the NHS back on its feet, we will improve cancer survival rates by hitting all cancer waiting time targets within five years, and double the number of MRI and CT scanners so no patient waits longer than they should.”
“We have also commissioned Lord Darzi to establish the state of the nation’s health service and his findings will inform our 10-year plan to radically reform the NHS.”