Cancer survival rates in Waltham Forest are improving, according to new findings.

The borough has in fact been named as one of the top ten areas in the UK there has been a real boost in people living through the disease.

New data from the All Party Parliamentary Group on Cancer claims survival rates are up from 65 per cent in 2011 to 66.6 per cent.

Dr Naheed Khan-Lodhi, GP and Clinical Director at NHS Waltham Forest Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “We are delighted that more people in Waltham Forest are living longer, healthier lives after being diagnosed with cancer.

“But there is still much more to do and we cannot be complacent. While survival rates are improving in Waltham Forest, they are still lower than the national average.

“Many people are waiting too long before visiting a doctor. It is extremely important to make sure you participate in screening programmes, and to alert your GP if you notice any unexplained changes to your body, such as the sudden appearance of a lump, blood in your urine or a change to your usual bowel habits.”

The CCG is working with Macmillan Cancer Support and Cancer Research UK to develop tools for GPs that help them diagnose cancer earlier.

The UK’s cancer survival rates currently lag behind European averages. Many patients are being diagnosed late, which reduces their chances of surviving for more than a year.