One in seven cancer sufferers in the north and north-east of Scotland has to wait at least two months before receiving treatment.
New statistics show that almost 15% of those in the region diagnosed with the deadly disease do not receive treatment within 62 days.
Opposition politicians branded the revelation “a real concern” which heaped additional anxiety and strain on those diagnosed with cancer.
Health Secretary, Shona Robison, admitted: “More needs to be done”. But she insisted more than £5 million was being given to health boards to improve current waiting times.
Orkney recorded the worst waiting times in the region, with one in four cancer sufferers not being treated within two months of diagnosis.
Scottish Liberal Democrat health spokesman Jim Hume said: “Doctors and nurses are working tirelessly to support patients diagnosed with cancer, but the drop in performance we have seen over the last quarter is a real concern.
“The figures are stark. A lower percentage of patients are being seen within the 62 day treatment time target. The number of health boards meeting this standard has halved, compared to the previous quarter.
“Across the north of Scotland, almost 15% of cancer patients are not being seen within 62 days. This wait must feel like a lifetime for people struggling with serious illness and their families.
“SNP ministers announced millions in extra funding to cut waiting times earlier this year. But since then, performance has got worse, not better.
“All the numbers seem to be heading in the wrong direction.
“We need to ensure that NHS boards are getting the support they need to give patients the best possible care at the time they need it.”
According to the statistics, published by the Scottish Government, 85.9% of patients in the north and north-east started cancer treatment within 62 days of being diagnosed. The average across Scotland was 90%.
Ms Robison responded: “It is vital that we treat cancer as quickly as possible and that’s why we have set rigorous standards in this area.
“I am pleased to see that the 31 day standard continues to be met, and that the average wait is only seven days once a decision has been made to treat.
“However, we know more needs to be done.
“Earlier this year, I announced an additional, targeted £5.25 million to help boards improve diagnostics and build capacity, with help for boards that are experiencing particular pressures, to cut waiting times and ensure patients get the speedy tests and treatment that they need.”