Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 116: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will introduce screening for men over 50 years of age for prostate cancer in view of the fact that recent research in the UK suggests this is viable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13724/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The National Cancer Control Strategy (2006) did not recommend the introduction of a population based screening programme for prostate cancer as there was insufficient evidence in favour of such a programme. This position is consistent with the Recommendations adopted by the European Union which advocate the introduction of cancer screening programmes which have demonstrated their efficacy having regard to professional expertise and priority setting for healthcare resources. My Department and the National Cancer Screening Service will keep emerging international evidence under review including the results of randomised trials that are currently being conducted internationally.

The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) is working to enhance access to early diagnosis and multi-disciplinary decision-making for prostate cancer. In this regard, Rapid Access Prostate Cancer Diagnostic Clinics will be established in each of the eight cancer centres designated under the NCCP. Patients at higher risk will be fast-tracked to these clinics, and those patients who receive a diagnosis of prostate cancer will have immediate access to a multidisciplinary specialist cancer consultation regarding appropriate management. Any man who has concerns in relation to prostate cancer should contact his GP for appropriate referral.