Written question asked by Norman Lamb (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 3 November 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 5 November 2008. It was answered by Ann Keen (Labour) on Tuesday, 11 November 2008 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Liver Diseases: Screening

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to introduce a national screening programme for liver disease.

Answer: The Government have no current plans to introduce a national screening programme for liver disease.We are concerned about the increasing incidence of and mortality from liver disease. We are already taking action on a number of fronts to combat its primary causes—alcohol misuse, viral hepatitis and obesity.We are now considering the possibility of developing a national plan for liver disease, which would cover early detection and health promotion as well as the full range of health services.

Secondary information