NHS Cancer Waiting Times: A System Under Strain
The National Health Service (NHS) is facing significant challenges in meeting its cancer treatment targets, with modern data revealing a concerning trend of extended waiting times for patients across England. Analysis of 2025 figures shows that almost all NHS trusts are missing the key 62-day standard – from cancer referral to starting treatment – a target the NHS has failed to consistently meet nationally since 2014.
The Widening Gap: Performance Across Trusts
The Press Association’s analysis paints a stark picture of inconsistency. Although the government has set an interim target of achieving a 75% success rate by March 2026, the reality on the ground is far from this goal. Only three out of 119 acute trusts met or exceeded the 85% target in 2025: Calderdale and Huddersfield (89.2%), Homerton Healthcare (85.8%), and Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells (85.7%).
Nationally, 69.1% of patients began cancer treatment within the 62-day window in 2025, a slight improvement from 67.7% in 2024, but still falling short of the 85% target. The data reveals a significant disparity, with some trusts experiencing waits exceeding 104 days for a substantial proportion of patients.
Long Waits: A Postcode Lottery
The most concerning figures highlight the extreme delays faced by patients at certain hospitals. At University Hospitals of Leicester, Queen Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, and Guy’s and St Thomas’, over 14% of patients waited more than 104 days to initiate treatment in December 2025. Hull University Teaching Hospitals and Mid and South Essex reported even higher rates, with 16.5% and 17.0% of patients respectively facing such lengthy delays.
Trust Responses and Future Outlook
NHS trusts acknowledge the challenges and are taking steps to address the issue. Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, for example, has identified improving cancer waiting times as a top priority and is implementing measures such as additional clinics and increased diagnostic capacity. Guy’s & St Thomas’ also stated that improving access to services is a key focus.
The NHS has outlined a National Cancer Plan aimed at improving performance and ensuring patients are seen and treated on time. However, the plan’s success will depend on sustained investment, effective resource allocation, and a concerted effort to address the systemic issues contributing to these delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the NHS cancer waiting time target?
A: The NHS aims for 85% of patients to begin cancer treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral.
Q: Has the NHS met this target recently?
A: No, the NHS has not consistently met this target at a national level since 2014.
Q: What is the government doing to address this issue?
A: The government has set an interim target of 75% by March 2026 and has outlined a National Cancer Plan to improve performance.
Q: Where can I discover more information about cancer support?
A: Information can be found on the NHS website and through cancer charities.
