Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser showed his support for improved Pancreatic Cancer research, diagnosis, awareness and treatment by visiting an awareness exhibition at the Scottish Parliament in February.
Representatives of Pancreatic Cancer UK and Pancreatic Cancer Scotland spoke to politicians about the disease and presented their ten point plan which calls for faster diagnosis and a better patient experience throughout the whole diagnostic process.
One person across the UK is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer every single hour. In Scotland, pancreatic cancer is the 6th biggest cause of cancer death, with 770 cases diagnosed, and 742 deaths recorded in 2012. 5-year survival rates in Scotland are just 3.2%, below the UK average of 4%. These are the lowest survival rates of the 21 most common cancers.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser said:
“I was pleased to be able to show my support for pancreatic cancer patients, and the charities who work on their behalf, by visiting the awareness stand in Parliament. It is important to learn more about what needs to be done to change pancreatic cancer’s shockingly low survival rates, which have been far too low for far too long.”
David Park, Head of Campaigns and Policy at Pancreatic Cancer UK commented:
“Pancreatic cancer has the worst survival outcomes of any of the most common cancers and we need to do more to improve pancreatic cancer awareness, diagnosis, research, treatment and care across Scotland and the rest of the UK. Pancreatic Cancer UK is grateful to [Name] for taking the time to visit our exhibition in Parliament and we hope that with increased political awareness will come positive and practical change for patients and their families in the future.”