The government has unveiled a long-term cancer plan for England aimed at ensuring 75% of patients live for at least five years after diagnosis by 2035. Ministers say the strategy, which focuses on faster diagnosis and treatment, could deliver the strongest improvement in cancer outcomes seen this century. Current figures show five-year survival stands at around 60%, trailing behind several comparable countries.

Central to the plan is a commitment to meet the NHS target for starting treatment within 62 days of referral by 2029, a standard not achieved for more than a decade. The strategy also promises millions more tests and scans, expanded use of robotic surgery, and greater access to specialist centres for rare and complex cancers. Genetic testing will be widened so more patients can receive targeted therapies.

Early diagnosis is described as critical, with efforts to improve screening and identify cancers at earlier stages. Measures include lowering thresholds for bowel cancer checks and expanding targeted lung cancer screening for people with a history of smoking. Every patient would also be offered personalised support plans and a named care lead to help coordinate care beyond treatment.

While the proposals have been broadly welcomed, experts have warned that staffing shortages could undermine progress. Professional bodies point to significant gaps in radiology and oncology roles, arguing that sustained investment in the specialist workforce is essential. Cancer charities say the ambition is encouraging but stress that prevention, workforce capacity and regional inequalities must be tackled to deliver lasting change.