Cancer diagnoses now reported every 75 seconds as new plan is launched

Analysis of NHS data shows almost 424,000 cancer diagnoses a year in the UK, equivalent to about one person every 75 seconds, and the government has published a National Cancer Plan proposing investment and targets to speed diagnosis and treatment.

Cancer is being diagnosed in the UK at a rate of about one person every 75 seconds, according to analysis of NHS data. That total amounts to almost 424,000 diagnoses a year and is higher than a decade ago. The government published a National Cancer Plan on World Cancer Day that sets out funding, new technology and targets intended to shorten waits and improve outcomes. The plan includes measures such as increased testing capacity, more use of robot-assisted procedures, and expanded diagnostic tools. Key facts: - The reported diagnosis rate is about one person every 75 seconds, up from roughly one every 90 seconds ten years ago, with almost 424,000 diagnoses annually. - Current outcomes cited in the reporting include around 60% of patients surviving five years or more and about 2.4 million people in England living after a cancer diagnosis; the NHS has not met the 85% target for starting treatment within 62 days since 2014, and many trusts reported long waits for treatment. - The National Cancer Plan announces £2.3 billion to deliver 9.5 million additional tests by 2029, a planned increase in robot-assisted procedures from about 70,000 to 500,000, and commitments to meet existing cancer targets by March 2029 and to aim for 75% of people diagnosed from 2035 to be cancer-free or living well after five years. Summary: The figures underline a rising number of cancer diagnoses and continuing concerns about delays and variation in care. The published plan sets funding and specific deadlines intended to increase diagnostic capacity and speed treatment, including targets for 2029 and 2035. Undetermined at this time.