A new survey reveals that half of people in the UK who experience possible signs of cancer delay contacting their GP for at least six months, potentially reducing their chances of survival. The research, conducted by Cancer Research UK (CRUK) in partnership with YouGov, found that only 48% of individuals with 'red flag' symptoms—such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or coughing up blood—sought medical help within that time frame.
The findings also highlight stark inequalities, with poorer people less likely to secure a GP appointment or return for follow-up visits. Among those who did contact their surgery, 81% from higher social groups (ABC1) obtained an appointment, compared to 74% from lower groups (C2DE). Similarly, 60% of ABC1s revisited their GP if symptoms persisted, versus just 48% of C2DEs.
CRUK chief executive Michelle Mitchell described the gap between the most and least deprived groups as 'really worrying'. Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patients Association, noted that the figures suggest the nation is 'not very good at seeking help when something’s wrong'. The delay in diagnosis can have 'devastating effects' on patient health, the charity warned.
NHS England has made early cancer detection a priority, aiming to diagnose 75% of cases at stage one or two by 2028. Dame Cally Palmer, national cancer director, urged anyone with concerns to seek help immediately, stating that early diagnosis 'dramatically boosts chances of survival'. The NHS is introducing new blood tests and public awareness campaigns to encourage prompt action.
