Cancer platitudes

That cancer patients in the poorest parts of Scotland are twice as likely to die than those in the least-deprived areas should surprise no one as there have been clear indications that this is the case for a long time (your report, 20 February, 2017). The data from the collaboration between Macmillan Cancer Relief and the Information Services Division, while clear and expected, do not lead us to a silver bullet that would reverse this unacceptable situation. There are many issues that lead to poor prognosis after a diagnosis of cancer and these are listed clearly in your article. Although government is responsible for delivering quality healthcare, including education, screening where it is of proven worth, early referral and diagnosis pathways, and modern, comprehensive therapy and post-treatment support, no one government can be saddled with the blame for this long-standing blemish on our healthcare system.

Nevertheless, while it mulls over what has occurred on their watch – the unacceptable statistics of delays in starting cancer therapies, cancellations of operations, A&E waits, any of which may or may not contribute to the cancer survival statistics – it is incumbent upon the present administration to sit down with professional and other groups and review seriously what can and should be done to clarify the causes and to rectify this situation. The government cannot mouth platitudes about inequalities when staring them in the face is a long-standing example of such which results directly in reduced life expectancy. (DR) ALAN RODGER

Clairmont Gardens Kelvingrove, Glasgow