§ Mr. Carter-Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) what assessment he makes of the efficacy of tumour markers in the diagnosis of malignant disease and in monitoring cancer treatment; if his Department gives advice to health authorities on the use of tumour markers and laboratory tests for cancer; and if he will make a statement;
(2) how many regional health authorities and district health authorities use the facilities of laboratory diagnostic tests incorporating tumour markers; if he will give the number of tests performed in each region for the last three years where data is available; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HayhoeOf the many tumours markers investigated, I am advised that only a small number has been shown to be of value in the diagnosis of malignant disease or in monitoring treatment. The Department gives no advice to health authorities on the use of tumour markers and laboratory tests for cancer. These are matters of clinical judgment.
Information on the use of tumour markers is not collected centrally.