Pancreatic cancer is one of Scotland’s deadliest cancers, yet it remains one of the least talked about.

That’s why this debate mattered, to shine a light on the urgent action needed to improve outcomes for patients and families across our country.

Why this issue is so important

• Around 900 people in Scotland are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year.

• Survival remains desperately low, the five-year survival rate is just over 7%.

• 80% of patients are diagnosed too late for potentially curative surgery.

• Nearly half of diagnoses happen in A&E, often when the disease has already advanced.

• Scotland ranks among the lowest internationally for pancreatic cancer survival.

These figures are heartbreaking, but they are also a rallying call. We can change this trajectory with earlier diagnosis, faster pathways, better awareness of symptoms, and stronger investment in research and treatment.

My message today was clear:

Pancreatic cancer must no longer be overlooked.

We owe it to patients, families, campaigners, and clinicians to make this a national priority.

Thank you to everyone who continues to fight for progress, especially the incredible charities, researchers, and people with lived experience who keep pushing for earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.

Together, we can drive the change Scotland needs.