The latest cancer waiting times data for Wales released today shows that yet another year has passed without meaningful progress. Despite ongoing attention on the issue, once again, in 2024, nearly 10,000 people waited more than 62 days from first suspicion of cancer to starting treatment.
Cancer waiting times stagnant for another year
Since 2022, the percentage of people beginning treatment within the Welsh Government’s target has increased by just 1%, demonstrating little overall improvement. While referral numbers between 2023 and 2024 rose only marginally (by 2%), this slight increase cannot account for the continued failure to meet targets. Unlike the previous year, where a sharp rise in referrals presented a significant challenge, this year’s figures show that the stagnation is due to a lack of real systemic change rather than an increase in patient numbers.
Thankfully, the national average for cancer waiting times has not worsened. However, we are deeply concerned about the widening gap in performance between different health boards. While Cardiff and Vale and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Boards have made notable improvements, no health board in Wales has yet met the national target. We need a pan-Wales approach to tackle this disastrous trend.
In 2020, when Covid-19 had the greatest impact, 5,684 people waited longer than 62 days to start treatment. This number rose to 7,031 in 2021, 8,829 in 2022, and 9,625 in 2023. Last year, 9,448 people still faced excessive delays. Behind every statistic is an individual and family, anxiously waiting for diagnosis and treatment.
The figures confirm what we have been highlighting for years: urgent action is required. While individual health boards have made progress, the overall system remains sluggish, and people are still facing unacceptably long waits for treatment.
We urge the Welsh Government and NHS Wales to take decisive steps in addressing these delays. People deserve timely treatment, and without real change, we risk continued stagnation and worsening health outcomes.
Tenovus Cancer Care remains committed to advocating for everyone affected by cancer and providing vital support through our services. If you need support, contact our free Support Line at 0808 808 1010.