Many thanks for taking the time to contact me on the important issue of ovarian cancer in Wales and Target Ovarian Cancer’s campaign on the safe resumption of services during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As an overall point, whilst we have seen some welcomed improvements in survival rates for those living with ovarian cancer in Wales, it is still of great concern that our cancer survival rates are amongst the worst in Europe, with much more to be done on improving early diagnosis.  Welsh Conservatives want to see consistent improvements in outcomes for all cancer patients in Wales.  My colleagues and I and have long called upon the Welsh Labour Government for greater investment in research and innovation, a reduction in referral and waiting times targets to increase the likelihood of early diagnosis and treatment, alongside improved access to screening and modern cancer medicines.

On the points you raise about the pandemic and recovery, Welsh Conservatives are alarmed at the drop in cancer referrals over the last few months.  It is shocking to see that Wales’ Single Cancer Pathway saw a 51% drop in referrals in April; the lowest we have seen since it began in June 2019.  It is also of deep disappointment that the Welsh Labour Government has been slow to resume cancer screening services, with many starting at the beginning of this month. We absolutely want to ensure that people who suspect they have symptoms of cancer are able to see their doctor as soon as possible.

My colleague, Angela Burns MS, the former Shadow Minister for Health, also raised concerns about the need for early diagnosis for ovarian cancer, including CA125 blood tests and ultrasounds, as well as his plans for shorter diagnostic pathways, directly with the Health Minister in March – however, disappointingly, he is still yet to reply fully to her question.  As a result, you have my full assurances that I will continue to raise the need for improvement in this area with the Minister for Health and will continue to fully support campaigns, such as your own, and research that raises awareness of the need to improve cancer outcomes and services for people in Wales.  I am therefore sharing your campaign through my social media channels.

Yours sincerely

Mark

Mark Isherwood MS/AS

Member of the Welsh Parliament/Senedd Cymru for North Wales Shadow Minister for Local Government, Housing and Communities Shadow Minister for the Armed Forces and North Wales