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Majority of English Hospitals Fail to Meet 62-Day Cancer Treatment Target
11 Nov
Summary
- Only 3 out of 121 NHS trusts in England meeting cancer care target
- Delays could be putting lives at risk, experts warn
- Research shows every 4-week delay reduces patient survival by 10%
According to a recent BBC analysis, the majority of hospital trusts in England are struggling to meet the key NHS waiting time target for cancer care. As of November 11th, 2025, just 3 out of 121 trusts in England are treating cancer patients quickly enough, within the 62-day target.
The government has acknowledged that wait times are too long, but stated that it is investing in the NHS to improve performance. However, experts warn that these delays could be putting lives at risk. Research led by Dr. Timothy Hanna, a leading global expert on cancer, shows that every 4-week delay in treatment reduces patient survival by an average of 10%.
With the majority of hospital trusts failing to provide timely cancer care, the situation is described as "worrying" by Dr. Hanna. The government's pledge to improve NHS performance will be crucial in ensuring cancer patients receive the prompt treatment they need to maximize their chances of survival.
