Suspected Cancer: Recognition and Referral Source: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Published December 20, 2021 Updated February 03, 2026

https://reference.medscape.com/cc2/p10/suspected-cancer-recognition-and-referral-2022a10018jd?ecd=WNL_drugguide_260311_MSCPREF_onc_etid8172632&uac=148436CN&impID=8172632 This Medscape summary of National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance is intended for identifying children, young people, and adults with symptoms that could be caused by cancer. It outlines appropriate investigations in general practice, and the selection of people to refer for a specialist opinion. For the complete set of recommendations, please refer to the full guideline. As of October 2023, 'suspected cancer pathway referral' is defined as follows: 'person to receive a diagnosis or ruling out of cancer within 28 days of being referred urgently by their GP for suspected cancer.' For further details, see NHS England's webpage on faster diagnosis of cancer.