'Ominous signs' of winter pressures as NHS waiting list grows
The NHS in England is facing significant winter pressures as routine hospital waiting lists rise for the second consecutive month. Despite record levels of elective care, health leaders warn that current demand is outpacing capacity.
Why it matters
The growing backlog in the NHS is a major political and social issue in the UK, raising concerns about the sustainability of public healthcare targets.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, The NHS in England experienced its busiest September on record
Health correspondent Published 17 minutes ago There are "ominous signs" that winter pressures are already affecting the NHS in England, according to senior health leaders.
The warning comes as new data reveals the waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England rose for the second month in a row.
An estimated 7.37 million treatments were waiting to be carried out at the end of August, relating to 6.24 million patients.
The numbers are the highest since October 2025 and have raised questions over whether the NHS will meet a government target of treating 92% of patients within 18 weeks by 2029.
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