Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

614. To ask the Minister for Health his views on the recent study by the Johns Hopkins school of medicine in the U.S. which states that most cancer cases are the result of bad luck; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1159/15]

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

The study carried out by the Johns Hopkins school of medicine in the U.S stated that cancer is caused by a combination of factors. Some of these factors, such as random DNA mutations during cell division, are outside of an individual's control. However, the study acknowledges that there are also many opportunities for cancer prevention, such as adopting healthy lifestyle choices and the early detection of cancers.

My Department and the HSE are promoting healthier lifestyles to reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, including cancer. The focus in this regard is on prevention and on keeping people healthier for longer. Also, our national breast, cervical and bowel screening programmes have a key role to play in saving lives by detecting cancer at an early stage.

The World Health Organisation estimates that more than 30% of cancer deaths could be prevented by modifying or avoiding key risk factors. Tobacco use is considered to be the single most important risk factor for cancer. The EU recently re-launched its European Code Against Cancer which identifies a number of ways in which people can reduce their risk of cancer, including through not smoking, being physically active, having a healthy diet and avoiding too much sun exposure.

The issue of cancer prevention will be addressed as part of the development this year of the next National Cancer Strategy.