New figures published today show the NHS diagnosed over 11,000
more cancers in 2022, reaching a new record high level – with
almost 950 people a day getting a diagnosis in England.
The latest Cancer Registration Statistics show more cancers were
diagnosed in 2022, with 346,217 new diagnoses – on average 948 a
day – compared to 329,664 in 2021 (an increase of
5%).
The figures show that among men there was a 7% increase in
overall cancer diagnoses in 2022, from 167,917 to 180,877. This
was mainly due to the increase in prostate cancers which rose by
more than a quarter to 54,732. In women, there was a 2% increase
in diagnoses, from 161,747 to 165,340. More cancers continue to
be diagnosed and registered among men (180,877) than women
(165,340).
After prostate and breast cancer, the next most commonly
diagnosed in 2022 were lung and then bowel cancer.
The higher rates of diagnosis are in part likely to reflect the
work of the NHS in 2022 to encourage people to come forward for
checks to catch up on the effects of the Covid pandemic,
following a reduction in the numbers coming forward and starting
treatment.
The data also shows that mortality rates from cancer are
continuing to reduce – in men the rate fell from 345 deaths per
100,000 people in 2011 to 299 deaths per 100,000 people in 2022.
Similarly, for women, the rate fell from 237 deaths per 100,000
people in 2011 to 212 deaths per 100,000 people in
2022.
NHS national cancer director Dame Cally Palmer
said: “This data shows the NHS is diagnosing more
cancers than ever before, and our work to raise awareness, target
those at risk and encourage people to come forward for checks is
leading to more people starting treatment promptly – potentially
saving lives.
“While staff have been working hard to see and treat more people
with cancer than ever before, we know that some people are still
waiting too long to receive a diagnosis or the all-clear, and
there is more to do to ensure all patients receive high-quality
and timely care.
“If you are worried about potential signs and symptoms of cancer,
it is important that you contact your GP without delay.”
ENDS
The Cancer Registration Statistics, England, 2022, publication
provides information on cancers that were newly
diagnosed in the 2022 calendar year in England.
Breakdowns are available by geography, gender, age bands,
deprivation and diagnosis stage.
