§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has for health screening for men, with particular reference to high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and prostate cancer. [25520]
§ Ms JowellThe National Screening Committee, chaired by the Chief Medical Officer, advises the Government about implementing national population screening programmes and reviewing the effectiveness of new and existing population screening programmes in the light of emerging evidence. After taking its advice, we decided that the National Health Service should not routinely offer screening for prostate cancer as the risks outweigh the benefits.
The National Screening Committee will be considering a number of new research studies this year, and it is likely these will include one about selective screening for stroke and the treatment of high blood pressure.
We are aware that, compared to women, men are often reluctant to use health care services. Our aim is to increase awareness amongst men of the health and lifestyle factors that can affect their health and encourage them to access medical services.