England's Cancer Survival Goal: 75% by 2035

England has unveiled a new cancer strategy targeting a significant increase in survival rates, aiming for three-quarters of patients to survive for at least five years by 2035. This ambitious plan seeks to achieve the fastest improvement in cancer outcomes this century. Currently, the UK's five-year survival rate stands at 60%, a figure that places it behind many other developed nations.

The strategy includes a pledge to meet the 62-day waiting time target for treatment by 2029, a benchmark not achieved in over a decade. To support these goals, the government is increasing the NHS budget by 3% above inflation. Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized that advances in medical science and technology, combined with this investment, will be crucial in transforming patient outcomes.

Improving early diagnosis is a cornerstone of the plan, as over half of cancers are currently diagnosed at stages one and two. Initiatives to enhance early detection include expanding screening programs, such as lowering the threshold for bowel cancer checks and rolling out a targeted lung cancer screening program for ex-smokers. The plan also aims to increase diagnostic tests and scans, promote robotic surgery, and expand genetic testing for personalized treatments.

Experts, including those from the Royal College of Radiologists and Cancer Research UK, have welcomed the strategy's ambition but stressed the need for significant, sustained investment, particularly in specialized staff. Workforce surveys indicate substantial shortfalls in radiologists and clinical oncologists, raising concerns about the capacity to deliver timely and effective care. Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to transforming cancer survival rates in England.