Scots record number of cancer cases

CANCER rates in Scotland have reached record levels – with more than 3,000 additional cases a year than a decade ago.

But latest figures also show an increase in survival rates, with 12 per cent fewer people dying from the disease.

They showed 29,449 people were diagnosed with cancer in 2010 – compared with 26,169 in 2000.

Health experts say the increase is down to Scotland’s ageing population as cancer is most prevalent in older people.

The new figures showed a 15 per cent drop in the number of men dying from cancer in the last ten years and a 7 per cent drop in women.

But they also highlighted how people in poorer areas were the most likely to die from the illness – with cancer death rates 76 per cent higher in the most deprived areas compared with the most affluent areas.

Health secretary Alex Neil said: “One in three people will develop cancer during their life but as these statistics show, earlier diagnosis and better treatment mean mortality rates are falling. Cancer remains a top health priority for both the  Scottish Government and NHS Scotland.”