Written question asked by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 11 October 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 October 2006. It was answered by Paul Goggins (Labour) on Tuesday, 17 October 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Cancer Services

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many men have taken up screening for (a) testicular and (b) prostate cancer in the last three years in each health board in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: There is no testicular or prostate cancer screening programme in place in Northern Ireland.In relation to prostate cancer the National Screening Committee recommends that routine screening using prostate specific antigen testing should not be introduced. The Committee is keeping the issue under review and will revise their recommendation if new evidence becomes available.The National Screening Committee does not recommend a screening programme for testicular cancer. However, men should be aware of the need for self-examination and the importance of referring to their GP with any concerns.

Secondary information