§ Mr. McAllionTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is taking to reverse the current increase in the incidence of oral cancer in Scotland.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 17 November 1992]Cancers and oral and dental health were identified as priorities in "Health Education in Scotland: A National Policy Statement" published in 1991. A major focus of activity in the programmes being developed by the Health Education Board for Scotland, will be on such risk factors as smoking and alcohol.
The crucial importance of detecting and treating pre-malignant and malignant conditions at an early stage is emphasised in dentists' training, and in a video issued by the Scottish Office Home and Health Department to all dental practices.
To ensure the highest standard of treatment, a Scottish cancer therapy network is being established. This will facilitate the exchange of information about clinical experience and practice in the treatment of all cancers to ensure that best practice is quickly recognised and spread throughout Scotland.