.png.71095e7453186f41c6f71e5bbcf49729.png)
At least 20,000 annual UK cancer deaths avoidable, says charity
At least 20,000 cancer deaths a year could be avoided in the UK with a national commitment to invest in research and innovation, and fix the NHS, says Cancer Research UK.
Progress is being made in finding new treatments for the condition that affects 50% of people at some point. But the charity says the UK lags behind comparable countries for survival.
It has launched a manifesto of priorities for this government and the next, ahead of a general election.
The document sets out what the charity says needs to change - and fast.
Whoever is running the country must commit to developing a 10-year cancer plan, spearheaded by a National Cancer Council accountable to the prime minister to bring government, charities, industry and scientific experts together, it says.
Key areas to focus on include:
- More investment in research to close an estimated £1bn funding gap.
- Greater disease prevention - banishing smoking to the history books, for example.
- Earlier diagnosis, through screening.
- Better tests and treatments, as well as cutting NHS waiting lists and investing in more staff.
Source: BBC News, 28 November 2023