Bernard Allen
Ceist:329 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children when he proposes to introduce a nationwide screening campaign for prostate cancer and men's health problems. [7991/02]
Written Answers. - Cancer Screening Programme.
The National Health Promotion Strategy 2000-2005 sets out a broad policy framework for the development of health promotion. The strategy contains a number of strategic aims and identifies a range of objectives which are required to enhance the promotion of men's health. The national health strategy also recognises this need and calls for the establishment of a working group to develop a men's health policy. A consultation process will commence shortly with a view to identifying all relevant stakeholders.
In December 2001, €320,000 was announced by my colleague, the Minister for Finance, for the Irish Cancer Society to support a study of prostate cancer, including diagnosis.
In the context of the national health strategy, I will continue to be advised by the National Cancer Forum in relation to the planning, development and implementation of cancer services for the country. A sub-group of the National Cancer Forum has recently been established on generic screening. This group, chaired by Mr. Michael Lyons, chief executive officer, East Coast Area Health Board, will review all issues relating to screening, including looking at specific diseases such as prostate cancer. Its recommendations will help to inform policy developments in this area on an ongoing basis.
Paul McGrath
Ceist:330 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in relation to the BreastCheck programme as implemented by his Department, he will give the location of each screening centre held to date; the number of women called for screening to each of those locations; the percentage who responded to this call; the numbers who were called for further checks arising from the results of the initial screening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7992/02]
As the Deputy is aware, BreastCheck, the national breast screening programme, commenced in March 2000. Phase one of the programme covers the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the North Eastern and Midland Health Boards. Screening takes place on an area by area basis by district electoral divisions. My Department has asked BreastCheck to provide the information requested directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.