Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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Question 521: To ask the Minister for Health the arrangements in place in relation to a national screening for prostate cancer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32198/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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International evidence does not support the introduction of a population based screening programme for prostate cancer at this time. The Department and the HSE are keeping emerging international evidence under review including the results of randomised trials that are currently being conducted internationally.

Rather the focus is on improving services for those with prostate cancer, and in this regard, Rapid Access Prostate Cancer Diagnostic Clinics are now operational in six of the eight designated cancer centres. Two further clinics are due to open later this year. Patients who are judged to be at higher risk of prostate cancer, based on agreed high risk criteria, are fast-tracked directly to these clinics. These patients will have access to a multi-disciplinary specialist cancer consultation regarding appropriate management. I would encourage any man who has concerns to contact his GP for advice and appropriate referral, as required.