HC Deb 26 April 1994 vol 242 cc150-1W
25. Mrs. Angela Knight

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what proposals she has to improve early diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

Mr. Sackville

The Government fully recognise the need to find a proven method of diagnosing ovarian cancer early to offer the greatest chance of a cure. However, any screening method must demonstrate its acceptability and effectiveness in reducing mortality before introduction nationally. A number of research projects are seeking currently to find a method sensitive enough to detect ovarian cancer without the need for investigative surgery, but will require full evaluation before they can be considered for a national based screening programme.