WIREDGOV

Record number of people living longer with cancer.

The amount of people living for up to five years after a cancer diagnosis has reached a record high, figures published yesterday show.

The Cancer Survival in Scotland statistics show that men diagnosed with cancer between 2007 to 2011 had a 48 per cent chance of five year survival, compared to 29 per cent between 1987 to 1991.

Women diagnosed during the same time period had a 54 per cent chance of five year survival compared to 40 per cent between 1987 and 1991.

Commenting on statistics released yesterday, Health Secretary Shona Robison said:

“I welcome this increase in cancer survival. It is good news that more people than ever before are able to continue with their lives after a cancer diagnosis.

“However, we know that there is still much to do and that too many people are still dying from cancer.

“Early detection offers the best chance of successfully treating cancer and our Detect Cancer Early campaign is making a real difference in encouraging people to visit their GP if they are concerned by their symptoms.

“Our cervical, breast and bowel screening programmes have also been successful in detecting more cancers at an early stage.

“In addition, the Government’s revised referral guidelines will assist GPs in spotting symptoms of cancer and ensuring that patients who require urgent attention are quickly assessed by a specialist.

“We continue to invest in advanced treatment techniques to provide Scottish patients with access to the best treatments possible.

“We work closely with the voluntary sector to transform care after cancer treatment and do more to support people with the physical, emotional and financial issues they face.

“As well as this, we work in partnership with NHS Boards and cancer networks to ensure that our cancer services continue to deliver at a high standard while retaining a focus on areas where further improvements can and will be made.”

Notes To Editors

NHS Scotland cancer survival statistics can be viewed at www.isdscotland.org

Figures include all cancers combined (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer).