UK Families Couldn't Afford A Cancer Treatment

According to Macmillan Cancer Support, cancer care is about £570 per month. UK families would be left with £365 monthly including standard costs for food, electricity, gas and utilities.

Unemployment and a large drop of income progress could make additional costs for cancer harder to absorb.

According to Macmillan Cancer Support's Chief Executive Lynda Thomas:

"At a time when thousands of families are struggling to make ends meet, a cancer diagnosis can be the straw that breaks the camel’s back, sending them into financial freefall.

"We’re talking about families whose world has already been turned upside down and now they’re having to stop going out or spending money on small treats such as toys for their children or magazines. And even then they’re still at risk of getting into debt. It’s got to be a very worrying, isolating place to be.

“When you’re diagnosed with cancer, the last thing you need to be worrying about is how to pay the bills and keep a roof over your head. But the one thing I would say is that you don’t have to do this alone – there is help out there. At Macmillan we offer financial information and support to help people get back on their feet.

"Last year we helped 90,000 people affected by cancer unlock £267million in benefits alone.”

Macmillan warned families may turn to debts and sell properties to cover the shortfall. With the possible real estate bubble pressing against UK cities, it may not be enough to cover the cancer treatment depending on length.

Statutory Sick Pay, a government allowance that pays just £88.45 weekly, wouldn't be enough to cover the costs as it could only last for about 28 weeks.