Study Reveals Increasing Cancer Treatment Wait Times in the U.S., Highlighting Disparities

A new study published in JAMA Surgery indicates a steady increase in wait times for first-course cancer treatment in the United States over the past decade. In 2022-2023, 72% of patients experienced delays of at least 30 days, up from 54% in 2012-2015. The study also found significant disparities, with longer waits more common among patients with Medicaid, no insurance, low incomes, or who are Black.