Bernard Allen
Question:284 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a national breast cancer screening programme has not been established. [10021/01]
Written Answers. - Cancer Screening Programme.
Bernard Allen
Question:285 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to a situation where the National Cancer Forum will not establish any further cancer screening programmes until a breast cancer screening programme is available nationwide. [10022/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 284 and 285 together.
The Deputy will be aware that in March 1997, a major action plan was announced to implement the proposals contained in the national cancer strategy. Included in the plan were proposals for the introduction on a phased basis of a national breast screening programme. Phase one of the programme has commenced and is covering the eastern, north eastern and midland health board areas and is targeting 140,000 women in the age cohort 50 to 64, which represents approximately 50% of the national target population. Decisions in relation to subsequent phases of the programme will also be guided by the experience gained from putting phase one of the programme in place. Phase two will involve the extension of the programme to the rest of the country and will be implemented as soon as is practicable.
I would therefore like to clarify for the Deputy that "BreastCheck" is the national breast screening programme and that the role of the national forum on cancer services is to advise me on issues relating to the development of cancer services on a national basis.
Questions Nos. 286 and 287 answered with Question No. 276.