Ethnic Minorities and Young People Face Delays in Cancer Diagnosis, Study Finds

A new study has revealed significant disparities in the cancer diagnosis process for ethnic minorities and young individuals in England. The analysis, conducted by the Nuffield Trust and the Health Foundation, found that individuals from these groups often require multiple visits to their general practitioners (GPs) before receiving a cancer diagnosis.

According to the study, one in five individuals across England require three or more GP interactions before being diagnosed with cancer. However, for those from ethnic minority backgrounds, the figure rises to one in three. The disparity is even more pronounced among young people aged 16-24, with about half needing at least three GP consultations and 20% requiring five or more consultations before receiving a diagnosis.

The study also highlighted socioeconomic factors, revealing that people from the most deprived areas in England were 21% less likely to be referred for urgent suspected cancer compared to those from more affluent areas. This finding raises concerns about equitable access to timely cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Why this matters: Early cancer diagnosis is crucial for improving survival rates and patient outcomes. The study's findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address disparities in cancer diagnosis and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, receive prompt and appropriate care.

Experts acknowledge the challenges in identifying cancer symptoms in young people and emphasize the importance of timely and appropriate referrals for suspected cancers. The NHS has set an ambitious goal to dramatically increase early detection of cancer, but progress in this area has stalled in recent years.

The report's authors call for policymakers to address concerns regarding the cancer diagnosis experience, particularly as the NHS is likely to fall short of its target to diagnose 75% of cancers early by 2028. They recommend providing tailored support for specific population groups in terms of screening and patient communication during diagnosis, as well as boosting primary care capacity through sustainable, long-term investment and growing and supporting the workforce.

The National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2022 further highlighted the disparities faced by ethnic minority communities in the UK healthcare system. Individuals from Mixed, Black, or Asian backgrounds reported feeling inadequately informed about the reasons for their referrals and faced challenges in fully understanding their diagnosis.

Key Takeaways

• Ethnic minorities and young individuals face disparities in cancer diagnosis
• 1 in 3 ethnic minorities require 3+ GP visits before cancer diagnosis
• About 50% of 16-24 year olds need 3+ GP consultations for diagnosis
• People in deprived areas 21% less likely to be referred for urgent cancer
• Experts call for tailored support and investment to address diagnosis gaps