Written question asked by Clive Betts (Labour), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 28 November 1996. It was answered by Lord Horam (Conservative) on Thursday, 28 November 1996 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: What plans he has to introduce a screening programme for the genetic disease Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Deficiency.

Answer: Mr. Betts: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to introduce a screening programme for the genetic disease alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. [6088] Mr. Horam: Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is one of many inborn errors of metabolism which are currently being considered as potential extensions to the existing neonatal screening programme--currently covering phenylketonuria and congenital hypothyroidism. The national health service executive research and development health technology assessment programme has commissioned two complementary systematic reviews of neonatal screening for inborn errors of metabolism. These reviews are considering the wider range of disorders in terms of screening effectiveness, cost and acceptability to parents. The reviews are due to be completed early in 1997, after which the reports will be presented to the National Screening committee, chaired by the Chief Medical Officer. Evidence from these reports, and evidence from any other robust research, will be considered by the committee before making any recommendations to the NHS executive board and Ministers about change to the neonatal screening programme.

Secondary information