I visited my doctor due to a lump in my armpit, suspecting it was a side effect of medication, which it was, but during the visit, my doctor found a hard mass doing a breast examination and referred me for further investigation with an expected wait time of two weeks. After two weeks passed without any communication, I contacted the clinic myself and was informed that the actual waiting period could extend up to ten weeks. Having a family history of cancer, this delay is not just unacceptable; it's potentially life-threatening.

Cancer doesn't wait. According to Cancer Research UK, early diagnosis significantly increases survival rates across all types of cancer (source: Cancer Research UK). Yet in Scotland, patients like me are being forced to endure agonising waits for urgent referrals.

The Scottish Government has set targets stating that patients should start treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral with suspicion of cancer (source: Scottish Government Health Department). However, this target is frequently missed due to various systemic issues.

We urge NHS Scotland and the Scottish Government to take immediate action by reviewing their current procedures and implementing necessary changes that will ensure all patients receive timely care following an urgent cancer referral. The health system must prioritise early diagnosis as it is crucial for improving survival rates and quality of life among cancer patients.

Please sign this petition if you believe in prompt medical attention following an urgent cancer referral. Let's make sure no one else has to endure such distressing delays when they're already facing one of life's most challenging battles.