John Bruton
Question:573 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if certain socio-economic groups have a higher vulnerability to certain types of cancer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1557/98]
Written Answers. - Cancer Incidence.
There is some international evidence of a correlation between certain cancers and socio-economic class. The evidence appears to be that some cancers, such as those of the lung and stomach, may be associated with lower socio-economic class while others, such as breast cancer and possibly leukaemia, may be associated with higher socio-economic classes.
In Ireland the National Cancer Registry Board collects data on the incidence and prevalence of all forms of cancer. Its first complete year of national data relates to 1994 and a comprehensive report was published last July. The board has advised that it would be important to have at least four or five years of national data, and to carry out a specialised study, before drawing conclusions about any links between cancer and socio-economic groups here.