The Department of Health and Social Care has released a new report highlighting that cancer waiting times are not meeting national targets. The Oral Health Foundation supports these findings, stating that head and neck cancer care is particularly troubling, with only 55% of patients starting treatment within the recommended 62-day window. This is currently the lowest performance among all cancer types.
The Oral Health Foundation warns that without better access to NHS dentistry, many cases of mouth cancer will continue to go undiagnosed. Dr Rachael England, Head of Policy and Advocacy at the Oral Health Foundation, commented: “We welcome the ambition in the National Cancer Plan, but ambition alone will not save lives.
“Patients with mouth cancer are already paying the price of delayed diagnosis and long waits, often facing devastating impacts on how they speak, eat and live.
“If the government is serious about improving outcomes, it must urgently improve access to NHS dentistry alongside wider cancer services. Early detection and timely treatment are non-negotiable - and patients will judge this plan on delivery, not promises.”
To address these issues, the Oral Health Foundation has outlined six recommendations: a funded national awareness campaign; expanded access to oral healthcare services; comprehensive training for healthcare professionals; free dental care for mouth cancer patients; investment in advanced diagnostic technology; and streamlined referral processes.
Nearly 12,000 people are diagnosed with mouth cancer each year in the UK, with more than 3,500 deaths annually. Mouth cancer often develops on areas such as the tongue or tonsils and can be difficult to detect without an oral examination. The number of cases has risen by 23% over five years.
Research from the Oral Health Foundation shows that public awareness about mouth cancer remains low. Most individuals with concerns seek help from their general practitioner rather than a dentist. Many GPs have indicated they need more training to recognize signs and symptoms of mouth cancer.
The Oral Health Foundation works to increase public awareness through campaigns like National Smile Month aimed at promoting early detection of oral health issues (https://www.dentalhealth.org/). The charity also provides evidence-based information and education internationally in partnership with dental professionals and policymakers (https://www.dentalhealth.org/). It offers free impartial advice on various topics including toothbrushing techniques and gum disease prevention (https://www.dentalhealth.org/).
The organization operates as an independent charity focused on enhancing global oral health standards through advocacy efforts (https://www.dentalhealth.org/).
For more details about England’s National Cancer Plan visit: Read the National Cancer Plan for England
