“In my experience there are delays with accessing diagnostic tests, such as biopsies and scans. Insufficient numbers of radiologists and pathologists often mean delays in getting biopsy and imaging results,” said Dr Kassam, cancer prevention and lymphoma specialist.

She continued: “Once a diagnosis of cancer is made, there are often delays in getting onto a theatre list for surgery and for getting a slot in chemotherapy units to start treatment. In addition, if an inpatient admission is needed beds are never available immediately given that most hospitals are currently over capacity.”

It’s a view widely shared among those working in the cancer space. “Long waiting times for diagnostic tests, specialist appointments, and treatments can delay timely intervention, affecting patient outcomes,” lamented Malcolm Packer, Chief Executive Officer of Kidney Cancer UK.

Indeed, a new survey report released by Kidney Cancer UK has found that almost one in four (23 percent) kidney cancer patients are being initially misdiagnosed with a range of more than 10 conditions before reaching the correct diagnosis.

“Disparities exist in cancer care quality across regions, leading to differences in survival rates and patient experiences,” Mr Packer said.

He attributes these disparities in part to the challenge of coordinating care across different healthcare providers and specialties, which is potentially leading to fragmented care and communication gaps.

According to a new report by the same charity, only one percent of patients were given details of a support line following diagnosis, and less than one percent were given details of a website. “Worryingly, five percent were given no information at all,” Mr Packer said.