We have pledged to tackle the root causes of ill health and work over the next 10 years to promote healthier living and reduce mortality from cancer by 20%.Specific initiatives designed to address these pledges and the Scottish Executive's approach to public health generally are set out in the White Paper, Towards a Healthier Scotland, a copy of which has been placed in SPICe.This is a challenging and wide ranging programme including:additional investment of £1 million to aid smoking cessation programmes;promoting healthier lifestyles and diet including the appointment of a Scottish Diet Co-ordinator;establishment of Healthy Living Centres via the New Opportunities Funding initiative (£34.5 million);The Cancer Challenge - a pilot programme to test the feasibility of a national screening programme for earlier detection of colorectal cancer;a formalised cancer genetics programme for breast, colorectal and ovarian cancer to provide advice and counselling for individuals who may be at increased risk based on their family history.The substantial additional investment in public health and health promotion, announced in the Scottish Parliament on 22 March, will further strengthen our efforts to help reduce the incidence of cancer in Scotland.