To mark Brain Tumour Awareness Month (BTAM) 2025, we held a reception in the Scottish Parliament Building.
Sponsored by long-time supporter of The Charity, Alexander Stewart MSP, the purpose of the reception was to highlight the need for a faster, better diagnosis. With it almost being two years since members of our Scottish Steering Committee (SSC) set objectives for how to achieve this, it was a good time to showcase some of the work that has taken place in this area so far. And, importantly on the steps that need to be considered, monitored and taken to improve diagnosis.
Alongside the reception, for the start of BTAM, Emma Harper MSP submitted a motion which included detail on the importance of achieving a faster diagnosis. So far, we’re happy to share that over a quarter of Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) have signed in support of the motion!
Hearing the need for a faster, better diagnosis
We wanted to bring many different stakeholders together for the reception and for it to be a chance for community members to meet with a range of people involved in the diagnosis space. In attendance were MSPs, SSC members, one of our Young Ambassadors, General Practitioners, the Clinical Lead for the Scottish Adult Neuro-Oncology Network (SANON) and the Programme Coordinator of the Neurological Alliance of Scotland (of which we are a proud member).
We were also joined by a company who are developing a blood test for the earlier detection of brain tumours, Dxcover Ltd. We’ve been collaborating with Dxcover to ensure that pathways are effective for innovation to reach NHS frontlines. Last year, we launched a report following a roundtable we co-hosted alongside Dxcover, which can be found here and was provided to MSPs at the reception.
At the event, MSPs listened to speeches excellently delivered by community members who kindly shared information on their diagnosis journey and what they believe needs to happen to enable a faster, better diagnosis. The Dxcover team also provided information on their triage tool.
Joined by the Minister for Public & Women’s Health
We were delighted that the Minister for Public & Women’s Health, Jenni Minto MSP was able to attend the reception. The Minister spoke with attendees and also provided an update on the actions that the Scottish Government is taking to support achieving a faster, better diagnosis.
Following the event, the Minister said:
“We know the earlier cancer is diagnosed the easier it is to treat. Diagnosing brain cancer can be challenging as symptoms are wide‐ranging and often vague.
“We also know that research and innovation are essential if we are to continue to develop new and effective approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumours.
“We will continue to work with The Brain Tumour Charity and other key stakeholders, to develop practical and impactful actions to support the increased detection of brain cancers.”
Here at The Brain Tumour Charity, we very much look forward to continuing our engagement with the Minister and the wider health department as we seek to improve outcomes for all those affected.
Reflections of the SSC Chair:
After the event, the Chair of the SSC, David García Jurado shared:
“It was incredibly moving to see so many passionate voices come together during our reception at the Scottish Parliament. Sharing my own family’s journey following my child’s diagnosis was deeply personal, reinforcing my dedication to driving forward the vital work of the Scottish Steering Committee.
“Our committee plays a pivotal role in advocating for faster, more effective diagnostic/triage tools and streamlined care pathways – essential steps toward improving outcomes for everyone affected by brain tumours.
I would particularly like to extend sincere thanks to all MSPs who attended, especially Alexander Stewart MSP, whose support and commitment made this event possible, and Minister Jenni Minto MSP for joining us and showing her continued support. I am immensely proud of the collaboration between patients, families, healthcare professionals, industry partners, and policymakers as we push for crucial advancements that will genuinely transform lives across Scotland.”
Thank you again to all those who attended. Together we will continue to push for change to ensure a faster, better diagnosis is achieved in Scotland and beyond.