Calls to improve cancer care in Wales

15 November 2016, 09:08

The Welsh Health Secretary Vaughan Gething has announced a plan to improve cancer survival rates in Wales.

Figures show 70% of cancer patients in Wales survive for at least a year and more than 50% survive for five years. 

But the number of people being diagnosed is increasing with 19,000 people diagnosed in 2013-14 alone.

The revised proposals include a commitment to increase cancer survival rates, to improve the early detection of cancer and to ensure patients in Wales get the best treatment.

Vaughan Gething said: “Sadly, cancer touches all our lives at some point. We’re proud that here in Wales cancer survival rates continue to increase year on year. 

"Early death through cancer has declined by around 14 per cent over ten years. Overall scores given by patients in Wales to our cancer patient experience survey were positive.

“Spending on cancer services have risen from £347m in 2011-12 to £409m in 2014-15 and £15m has been allocated in the draft budget for better diagnostics.

“Despite all of this, there’s always more to do to ensure that we deliver the best possible cancer care for people here in Wales, this is paramount.