Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 22 Mar 1990

Vol. 397 No. 4

Written Answers. - Cancer Deaths.

Michael Joe Cosgrave

Question:

72 Mr. Cosgrave asked the Minister for Health, arising out of a recent report which showed a high percentage of cancer deaths in the Dún Laoghaire area of County Dublin and the east coast, the investigations which have been undertaken by his Department to pinpoint particular causes for the evidence emerging in the recent report; if he will have the matter fully investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

The mortality figures to which the Deputy refers did not take appropriate account of the age structure of the counties or county boroughs nor the age structure of the national population. The relatively high rates indicated for the areas referred to by the Deputy primarily reflect the age structure of the population rather than an increased risk of cancer mortality. Accordingly, no special investigation is warranted.