Ceist:
46 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the principal indicators used by his Department in establishing its health targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23927/98]
Written Answers. - Health Targets.
In establishing its health targets my Department examined the epidemiological information available to it which set out the main mortality and morbidity patterns in our population. The principal indicators involved are life expectancy, and premature mortality, that is deaths under 65 years, from cancer, heart disease and accidents. These are the three main causes of premature mortality in Ireland. The setting of additional targets has been guided by epidemiological information on a range of other causes of death and morbidity.