Cancer death rates 60% higher in deprived UK areas, study finds

London, February 17, 2025 – A new analysis by Cancer Research UK has revealed stark inequalities in cancer mortality across the country, with death rates in the most deprived areas nearly 1.6 times higher than in wealthier regions.

The study found that for all cancers combined, mortality in the poorest areas stands at 337 deaths per 100,000 people, compared to 217 deaths per 100,000 in the most affluent areas.

The report estimates that an additional 28,400 cancer deaths annually -equivalent to 78 extra deaths every day - are linked to deprivation. Lung cancer emerged as the leading contributor, with mortality rates nearly three times higher in deprived communities. Cancer Research UK attributes much of the disparity to higher smoking rates in these areas, where smoking prevalence is at least three times that of the wealthiest communities.

In addition to differences in cancer incidence and outcomes, the study highlights significant disparities in access to care. Patients in the most deprived areas of England are up to a third more likely to wait over 104 days for treatment after an urgent referral. They are also 50% more likely to be diagnosed after presenting symptoms as an emergency, rather than through earlier detection methods.

Dr. Ian Walker, executive director of policy and information at Cancer Research UK, described the findings as "shocking and unacceptable." He stressed, “No one should be at a greater risk of dying from this devastating disease simply because of where they live. These figures are shocking and unacceptable – but crucially, they’re avoidable.”

Cancer Research UK has called on the UK government to take urgent action to address these health inequalities by investing in prevention, early diagnosis, and timely access to treatment, particularly in the most deprived areas.

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