Opposition MSPs are calling for rapid action to prevent a “tsunami” of cancer deaths after figures reveal almost 400,000 screenings were delayed due to the covid-19 pandemic.

Of the 396,736 screenings delayed after programmes were paused on the 30^th March, 248,177 were bowel screenings, 46,596 breast and 101,963 cervical.

The number of Scots on a waiting list for a diagnostic endoscopy – a procedure often used to detect cancer – has also passed 19,000 after all but emergency procedures were paused during the pandemic.

All three programmes and endoscopy procedures are now beginning to restart as Scotland continues to see restrictions eased and new cases of the virus remain low.

The estimate figures were published in response to a question submitted through the Scottish Parliament by Scottish Labour MSP Monica Lennon.

The central Scotland parliamentarian warns the missed appointments are lost opportunities to find or prevent cancer, “risking 400,000 lives”.

Ms Lennon said: “Worryingly, we now face a cancer emergency and urgent action is needed to clear the backlog of vital screening appointments.

“Scotland needs a fully-resourced plan to restart and prioritise cancer screening and treatment. We must be able to cope with the competing demands of the covid-19 pandemic and non-covid related care in the months ahead, especially if there is a second wave.”

The Scottish Government has said it will make use of private sector capacity alongside the NHS Golden Jubilee Hospital in Glasgow and mobile units to try to clear the endoscopy backlog.

The Scottish Government has been approached for comment on the delayed screenings.

Sign up to our bulletin sent twice a week so you don’t miss out on the latest jobs and health and social care news.