Settle NHS dispute or thousands with cancer could die early, say health chiefs

Patients diagnosed with typically less survivable cancers such as lung cancer, were said to be particularly at risk from the disruption caused by the strikes. Photograph: NHS England/PA

Thousands of cancer patients could die early if ministers and junior doctors do not urgently resolve their bitter pay row, health officials have warned.

Oncologists and cancer leaders are becoming increasingly alarmed and frustrated at the devastating impact of NHS strikes on care and treatment. Tens of thousands of patients have had cancer appointments, treatments and operations cancelled since the strikes began about 13 months ago.