News & Updates

CRUK and Obesity Action Scotland Cancer Awareness Week

Heather Peace, Head of Public Health Nutrition

“Food Standards Scotland welcomes the launch today of Cancer Awareness Week.  We fully support this valuable initiative which raises awareness of the link between obesity and 13 different types of cancer.   With two out of three of us either overweight or obese, many families in Scotland face serious health consequences, including cancer.

"We will work with CRUK and Obesity Action Scotland to tackle obesity which is estimated to cost the Scottish economy at least £2.37 billion a year, placing unsustainable burdens on the NHS.

“Without action, we face the prospect of crippling increases in diet-related ill health.  No single action will tackle obesity and diet-related ill health, which is why Food Standards Scotland has recommended a package of measures.  This includes reducing unhealthy food and drink in-store promotions, reducing large portion sizes and increasing healthier options for consumers when eating outside the home."