Cancer is the leading cause of death in Scotland, affecting families everywhere. That’s why, in the lead up to the national election on 7 May 2026, we called on all political parties in Scotland to commit to achieving the long-term policy change needed for people affected by cancer.
Since the election, we've seen political parties make some strong commitments. Now, we want to see them deliver - by turning these commitments into action.
Learn about what's next for cancer policy in Scotland
We’ve made huge progress on cancer in the last 50 years. Yet, in Scotland, pressure on cancer care is increasing, cancer waiting times are not consistently met, and inequalities in cancer outcomes are growing.
That’s why, in September 2025, we set out four key actions that the next Scottish Government can take to help save around 10,100 lives between now and 2040.
When it comes to beating cancer, well supported, long-term cancer strategies are key to success. Scotland’s current cancer strategy, published in 2023, is bold and ambitious – but progress is being delayed because of a lack of adequate funding for delivery. That needs to change. With cancer death rates being around 80% higher for people living in most deprived areas compared to the least deprived, action is also required to reduce health inequalities.
To diagnose and treat cancer quickly, we need a well-resourced NHS with enough staff and equipment, and cutting-edge technologies and treatments available to everyone who needs them. With pressure on the NHS and GPs increasing, we need action and funding to address staff shortages, as well as implement innovative tests and treatments.
Lung cancer is the most common cancer in Scotland. That's why it's vital that the Scottish Government takes action on tobacco - the biggest cause of lung cancer. This includes implementing the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, funding stop smoking services, and rolling out a national lung cancer screening programme.
Research is key to providing us with better cancer prevention, earlier diagnosis, and more effective treatments. The Scottish Government needs to invest in research and back plans for a Scottish Health and Biomedicine Institute (SHBI). This will deliver the innovative treatments people in Scotland deserve.
Read our manifesto learn more about the policy change that we are calling for.
With Scotland and Wales both choosing their next national government this year, we’re calling on all political parties across both nations to make the elections a true turning point for cancer.
Scotland could save around 10,100 lives and Wales could save around 5,500 with urgent, focused action against cancer, according to our latest analysis.
With the new Scottish Parliament in full swing, Campaigns Ambassadors in Scotland are needed more than ever to help connect with local politicians, share compelling stories, and spread the word about our campaign to improve cancer outcomes.
