Ingrid Stenstadvold Ross is the Secretary-General and has previously held several leadership positions at the Norwegian Cancer Society, with responsibilities ranging from prevention, communication, and political advocacy. She has nearly 20 years of experience in leadership, political advocacy, organizational development, research, and innovation within various NGOs. Ingrid is the chair of the board of Abelia, a national association for knowledge and technology enterprises. She also chairs the European Fair Pricing Network and serves as a board member of Active Against Cancer and the Oslo Cancer Cluster.
Ingrid Stenstadvold Ross
Biography
Session title
Keynote speech: Equity, Innovation and Collaboration - Norway’s Vision for Cancer Control
Session synopsis
As Scotland approaches a pivotal election year, Norway too is entering a new era in cancer control with the launch of its National Cancer Strategy 2025–2035.
In this keynote, Ingrid Stenstadvold Ross, Secretary General of the Norwegian Cancer Society, will share insights from Norway’s approach to tackling cancer through a whole-of-society effort—anchored in equity, early diagnosis, and research-driven innovation.
Norway’s strategy places strong emphasis on reducing inequalities in cancer outcomes, ensuring timely access to diagnostics and treatment, and strengthening the role of patients and civil society in shaping services. With a growing cancer burden and an ageing population, the need for sustainable investment in cancer services is more urgent than ever.
The keynote will also highlight how Norway is fostering a vibrant research ecosystem—through public-private partnerships, patient involvement, and international collaboration. Drawing parallels with Scotland’s ambitions, Ingrid will reflect on how political leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term planning can help deliver better outcomes for all.
As Scotland counts down to the 2026 election, this keynote offers a timely opportunity to explore how shared challenges can be met with shared ambition—and how countries can learn from each other to ensure longer, better lives for people affected by cancer.