Vol. 519 No. 7
84 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to screen all children of Romanian origin for the genetic disorder Thalassaemia, which can reduce life expectancy, as advised by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24. [14787/00]
I understand from the National Centre for Medical Genetics, which is located on the campus of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, that the benefits of screening for Thalassaemia are not clear. Those affected by the disease have significant symptoms from an early age and can be diagnosed without difficulty. I also understand that children of Romanian origin do not necessarily have a higher chance of developing the condition. I can, therefore, confirm to the Deputy that I have no plans at this stage to carry out such a screening programme of Romanian children.
