MILLIONS of Brits have missed out on crucial cancer tests and treatment as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Many are missing out on the chance for docs to save their lives or give them extra time with their loved ones.
Sarah Woolnough, policy chief at Cancer Research UK, said it is “extremely worrying”.
She added: “We’re going to have this huge backlog to clear.
“It’s a massive backlog of services and treatment to deliver.
“It’s absolutely huge, it’s thousands and thousands and thousands.”
Professor Charles Swanton, the charity’s chief clinician, added: “Delays to diagnosis and treatment could mean some cancers will become inoperable.”
Cancer Research’s data shows that across Britain, 12,800 patients have missed out on surgery, 6,000 on chemotherapy and another 2,800 on radiotherapy.
In response, an NHS spokesman said: “Even though more people than ever started NHS cancer treatment in March, coronavirus has turned millions of lives upside down.
“Cancer services are largely now open, ready and able to receive all patients who need care, so the critical point is that anyone who is concerned about a possible cancer symptom should contact their GP practice and come forward for a check-up.”
