A recent analysis has shown that cancer patients faced delays in their treatment during periods of industrial action by junior doctors. The delays have led to a 27% reduction in cancer surgery, resulting in over 7,000 fewer operations since March 2023. These delays increase the risk of tumour growth and spread, with a 10% increased risk for every four-week delay in starting cancer treatment. The highest risks were found among patients with bowel cancer and head and neck disease. NHS officials are concerned about the potential harm to patients and are in discussions with the BMA to agree on safety mitigations for urgent cancer surgery. Cancer Research UK is urging all parties to work together to reach an agreement and ensure that cancer patients receive life-saving services. Junior doctors are demanding a 35% pay rise, which has led to multiple NHS strikes and over 1.3 million cancelled hospital appointments and operations in England.
