Leukaemia

HC Deb 25 March 1957 vol 567 cc785-6

41. Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Health to what extent there has been an increase in deaths from leukaemia over the period of the last 30 years.

Mr. Vosper

In 1925 the number of deaths certified as due to leukaemia (including aleukaemia) was 552 representing a death rate of 14 per million persons living. In 1955 the number of deaths was 2,224 and the rate 50 per million.

Mr. Blenkinsop

In view of the serious increase which is taking place and the anxieties there are about the possible future growth of this disease, does the right hon. Gentleman accept responsibility for giving advice to the Prime Minister about the possible effects of future hydrogen bomb tests, in view of the clear indication that these tests, on whatever scale, are bound to have an effect upon the strontium of the body?

Mr. Vosper

I think the hon. Member should not come to too rapid conclusions. A great part of this increase took place in the years 1925 to 1945. There are a number of causes contributing to the increase. Of course, the matter is very much in my mind and in that of my right hon. Friend.

Mr. B. Harrison

Would my right hon. Friend look into the matter and make sure that the most modern equipment is available for X-ray photography and that this photography is not a cause of the increase in leukaemia?

Mr. Vosper

I think it may well be a cause, and it is, in fact, being investigated by the Committee under the chairmanship of Lord Adrian. I am sure they will pay regard to what my hon. Friend said.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Does not the Minister agree that if these tests add even a small fraction to the danger, then it is his responsibility to give advice to the Prime Minister on the subject? What advice has he given?

Mr. Vosper

Certainly I do. But I suggested that the hon. Member is reading far too much into the increase.

Mr. Fort

Can my right hon. Friend say how much the increase has been due to improved methods of diagnosis and how much is an absolute increase?

Mr. Vosper

I cannot give any figure, but certainly the improved methods of diagnosis have contributed to the increase.

Mr. Blenkinsop

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible moment.