Bernard J. Durkan
Question:637 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of incidents of testicular cancer diagnosed in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24863/00]
Written Answers. - Cancer Incidence.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:638 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of incidents of breast cancer diagnosed in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24864/00]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:640 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of recorded deaths from various forms of cancer on a county by county basis in each year since the setting up of the National Cancer Registry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24866/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 637, 638 and 640 together.
My Department does not routinely collect data on the incidence of or mortality from cancer. The National Cancer Registry is the statutory agency charged with this function. I have therefore forwarded the Deputy's requests for information to Dr. Harry Comber, Director, National Cancer Registry for investigation and direct reply.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:639 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if evidence exists which might indicate a susceptibility to certain forms of cancer arising from particular working environments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24865/00]
A clean and safe working environment is essential for maintaining the health and well being of workers. Clearly prolonged exposure to high levels of carcinogens and carcinogenic materials can be a factor in the level of risk of developing can cer. The Health and Safety Authority is the body with primary responsibility for monitoring the incidence of ill health in the workplace and in regulating the workplace to ensure compliance with EU directives on protecting the health of workers from hazardous substances in their place of employment. The National Cancer Registry Board also identifies, collects, classifies and analyses information relating to the incidence and prevalence of cancer and related tumours in Ireland.
As Minister for Health and Children, I am aware that environmental tobacco smoke is considered to be the most significant indoor pollutant because of its prevalence and impact on human health. A link between lung cancer and passive smoking has been accepted for some time. Environmental tobacco smoke is classified as a class A carcinogen, similar to asbestos. While there are prohibitions, restrictions and voluntary codes of practice on smoking in many workplaces, I would like to see measures in place to protect all workers who do not wish to be exposed to environmental tobacco smoke in their place of work. A Bill is being prepared in my Department which will, among other things, address this issue.
Question No. 640 taken with Question No. 637.
Questions Nos. 641 and 642 taken with Question No. 156.