The Scottish Government commissioned Alma Economics to conduct an analysis of a written consultation which sought the public’s views on cancer prevention, management, and care.

Given the projected increase in cancer incidence, the country’s ageing population, and the challenges resulting from socioeconomic inequalities and the Covid-19 pandemic, this strategy will affect the lives of many Scottish citizens affected or at risk of cancer.

We used rigorous descriptive and thematic analysis of responses to identify the key themes put forward by the public. Respondents placed great emphasis on the need to prioritise prevention and early intervention through raising awareness, promoting healthier lifestyles, and facilitating earlier diagnoses.

Our analysis indicated that tackling unequal access to cancer care arising from socioeconomic and geographic factors was also important to respondents. There were also calls for greater support for the workforce, more investment in research and innovation, greater recognition of secondary, rare, and less survivable cancers, and a more person-centred approach, among other themes.

Our analysis will inform Scotland’s new cancer strategy.

➥ The report can be found here.