By james art Mr Gibson spoke to representatives of cancer charities and encouraged all women to attend their screenings when invited.
He said: “Last week in the Scottish Parliament I got dressed before speaking to representatives from Breast Cancer Now, the research and support charity dedicated to providing support for today and hope for the future for everyone affected by breast cancer.
“Around 4,800 people (4,770 women and 30 men) – 92 people every week – are diagnosed each year in Scotland.
“When breast cancer is detected at stage 1, almost 100 percent of people survive. This is why it is imperative that women attend their checkups.
“In NHS Ayrshire & Arran, 76.7 per cent of women attended when invited between 2020-23, slightly higher than the national average of 75.9 per cent, and I strongly encourage all women to attend their screening, when invited.
“I am delighted to hear that 100 per cent of people diagnosed at Ayrshire & Arran Health Board have started their treatment within the recommended 31 days of being diagnosed with breast cancer.
“However, secondary breast cancer data is not currently routinely or consistently collected in Scotland and I have already written to the Scottish Government to ask what action it is taking to improve secondary breast cancer data collection under the Scottish Cancer Action Plan 2023-2026.”