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Northern Ireland Office

Answer

Mr. Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps are being taken to ensure that those with learning disabilities make use of screening for (a) breast and (b) cervical cancer. [194532] Angela Smith: Each of the four Health Boards in Northern Ireland is actively involved in health promotion activities within their Board area. Staff are continuously working to increase awareness and educate all women about breast and cervical screening with particular focus being placed on disadvantaged areas, ethnic minority groups, women with learning/ literacy difficulties and individual groups with special needs. Specialist literature for women with learning difficulties has been produced by the National Screening Committee. Plans are also in place to produce a DVD aimed at women with learning difficulties. A partnership approach has been developed with Action Cancer with the provision of special screening clinics for women with learning difficulties. Tailored training and education programmes have been introduced for GP's, Action Cancer and Ulster Cancer Foundation personnel and Community Learning Disability Nurses; information sessions have been introduced for clients, carers, staff and supporters in Day/Adult Centres.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

194532; 426 c335W

Session

2003-04

Subjects

Cervical cancer Breast cancer Cancer Health education Learning disability Northern Ireland Screening

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk