Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

475. To ask the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 122, 124 and 125 of 8 October 2014, if there has been documented cases of digital mammograms contributing to the occurrence of breast cancer; and if there is a safety statement available for digital mammogram machines here. [40478/14]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

There have been no documented cases of digital mammography contributing to the occurrence of breast cancer.  Manufacturers’ manuals and safety statements are available for mammography machines used in Ireland.

BreastCheck utilises digital mammography as it is the most advanced method available, giving enhanced image quality and significant reductions in the radiation dose associated with screening examinations.

Quality assurance processes and measurements are a vital part of the BreastCheck programme.  The ‘Guidelines for Quality Assurance in Mammography Screening’ is available from the publications section of the BreastCheck website.  These guidelines are consistent with those of the European Reference Organisation for Quality Assured Breast Screening and Diagnostic Services (EUREF) which is the EU standard.  EUREF is currently evaluating the BreastCheck programme.