Dr. Neil Smith, a GP in a deprived area, underscored the importance of early detection and the socioeconomic barriers that often prevent patients from seeking necessary medical help.

Despite improvements in urgent cancer referrals and survival rates, experts agree that more work is needed to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment for all patients.

Professor Peter Johnson, NHS England's cancer director, highlighted the improvements in early diagnosis through initiatives like targeted lung checks, particularly in deprived areas, but stressed that ongoing enhancements in cancer care access are essential.

The UK Government's new National Cancer Plan for England presents a critical opportunity to address existing inequalities in cancer care and secure necessary funding.

Cancer Research UK's report reveals that individuals in the UK's most deprived areas experience cancer death rates nearly 60% higher than those in wealthier regions, largely due to late diagnoses and less effective treatments.

Participation in cancer screening programs is significantly lower in deprived communities, with bowel cancer screening rates about 25% lower than in affluent areas.

Cancer Research UK is advocating for targeted initiatives and increased investment in cancer services in high-need areas to improve access and support smoking cessation efforts.

Dr. Ian Walker from Cancer Research UK emphasized the unacceptable geographic disparities in cancer outcomes and the urgent need for equitable access to NHS services.

The national cancer plan aims for 75% of urgently referred patients to be diagnosed or have cancer ruled out within 28 days, and for 96% to start treatment within 31 days of a treatment decision.

The NHS plans to enhance the Faster Diagnosis Standard, targeting an additional 100,000 patients to receive a diagnosis or the all-clear within four weeks by the following year.

Karis Betts emphasized the need for sustainable funding for smoking cessation programs and improved early cancer diagnosis methods, such as targeted lung screening.

The collective efforts of healthcare professionals and organizations aim to ensure that no one faces higher cancer risks due to their living conditions.