article_snippet: A total of 18,740 patients in January waited longer than six weeks for tests to diagnose cancer.
article_snippet: Not all the patients waiting for screening, such as CT scans, X-rays and ultrasounds, will have cancer.
article_snippet: However, it is crucial diagnosis happens as quickly as possible so any tumours found can be removed or treated before any tumours found spread.
article_snippet: It means that instead of being seen in two weeks, patients could have to wait up to six months.
article_snippet: The Department of Health claimed that waiting times for scans are increasing because more patients are being referred by GPs.
highlights_snippet: 18,740 patients in January waited longer than six weeks for cancer tests .
  