Motion · S6M-01221 · 13 Sep 2021

Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Lodged by Alexander Stewart Standard Motion 28 supporters

The motion

That the Parliament acknowledges that September 2021 is Blood Cancer Awareness Month; understands that blood cancer is the fifth most common and third biggest cancer killer in Scotland; notes that over 250,000 people are currently living in the UK with a diagnosis of the condition, all of whom have been at an increased risk during the COVID-19 pandemic; understands that between 2008 and 2017, on average 2,416 people were diagnosed with a blood cancer each year, with around 16,500 people living with blood cancers in Scotland; believes that the latest projections for Scotland predict a significant rise in the number of cases diagnosed each year; understands that, despite this, the level of knowledge and awareness remains limited relative to solid tumour cancers, with over half the population unable to describe any symptoms; believes that, because of this, the specific needs of people living with blood cancers are not fully met; asserts that, given the increasing prevalence of blood cancers, the Scottish Government has an opportunity to include a defined approach for people with blood cancer as it develops the next five-year cancer strategy for Scotland in 2021, and calls on this strategy to be supported by an implementation plan and dedicated resources to reflect the rising incidence of cancer diagnoses, to help ensure that capacity across cancer services are able to meet the targets defined.

Supporters (28)

Source: the Scottish Parliament motions and amendments record.