asked the Minister for Health if he has satisfied himself regarding the effectiveness of cancer screening services; and the areas where a screening service is not now in operation.
Written Answers. - Cancer Screening.
53.
There is evidence that some screening programmes are effective in reducing the incidence of, and mortality from, certain cancers. Screening for cervical and breast cancer is available throughout the country. At present, women are screened for cervical cancer by general practitioners, at family planning and public health clinics and at maternity hospitals. Mammography is available to women on referral from general practitioners.
The report of the working group to examine how current arrangements for the taking and analysis of cervical smears can be improved and to recommend how a cervical screening programme could be organised will be available in a short time.