Government publishes new cancer strategy

The coalition government has published a new cancer strategy which it believes could save up to 5,000 lives a year.

Improving Outcomes – A Strategy for Cancer will be backed by more than 750 million pounds over four years and includes plans for earlier diagnosis of cancer, improving awareness of the signs and symptoms and extending the NHS screening programmes.

The government also wants to improve access to treatment, care and support and is investing in extra diagnostic tests and increased access to radiotherapy.

Health secretary Andrew Lansley said the plans should boost England's survival rates so that they rival the best in Europe.

He commented: "The coalition government's reforms of health and care services will drive improvements in what matters most to patients and their families – including cancer outcomes."

The strategy was welcomed by Cancer Research UK, whose chief executive, Harpal Kumar, said the additional investment in earlier diagnosis will ensure patients have access to targeted treatments as quickly as possible.