Pancreatic cancer is the deadliest common cancer in Scotland. Right now, 80% of people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer too late for life saving treatment, and half die within three months. Achieving earlier diagnosis is key to improving survival rates.
The Scottish Government’s 2023 cancer strategy committed to improving earlier and faster diagnosis with a particular focus on less survivable cancers. Now, we need to see pancreatic cancer prioritised.
As a Member of the Scottish Parliament you can raise this issue with the Cabinet Secretary using our template letter.
You can also contact tom.steiner@pancreaticcancer.org.uk for suggestions of parliamentary questions on this topic.
Dear Cabinet Secretary,
I am writing to you on behalf of my constituents, who have contacted me to set out the urgent need to improve early detection of pancreatic cancer. As I’m sure you are aware, pancreatic cancer is the deadliest common cancer in Scotland. 80% of people are diagnosed too late for potentially lifesaving treatment. Early detection is key to improving survival.
I was encouraged to see the Scottish Government’s commitment in its 2023 cancer strategy to improving earlier and faster diagnosis with a particular focus on less survivable cancers. The associated action plans that are in place and in development represent an important opportunity to deliver this ambition.
A number of my constituents are supporting Pancreatic Cancer UK’s Unite. Diagnose. Save Lives. campaign that asks your Department to commit to three actions as a priority:
- Invest in and roll-out regular monitoring for those at the highest risk of developing pancreatic cancer. This should include surveillance for people with a family history of pancreatic cancer and case-finding in people with new-onset diabetes and weight loss.
- Invest in rolling out new tests to detect pancreatic cancer earlier. Supporting the development and implementation of innovative blood, urine and breath biomarker tests will improve early detection within existing cancer services.
- Urge the UK Government to transform investment into vital pancreatic cancer research by allocating at least £35 million every year across the UK for the next 20 years. This sustained funding is essential because meaningful research breakthroughs require continuous, reliable investment over many years to support the full cycle of research: from bench to bedside.
What plans does your Department have to improve survival for pancreatic cancer and the other less survivable cancers?
Should you wish to receive any further information, Pancreatic Cancer UK would be happy to assist. Please email tom.steiner@pancreaticcancer.org.uk to set up a meeting.
I look forward to receiving your response.
Best wishes,
[MSP NAME]