Nuchal Translucency Scans

HC Deb 02 November 2001 vol 373 c892W

Sandra Gidley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the availability of nuchal translucency scans. [9093]

Jacqui Smith

The advice of the United Kingdom National Screening Committee on Down's Syndrome screening is that all women should be offered second trimester serum screening to consist of at least a double test and a move towards triple or quadruple tests when possible. Other combinations of serum analytes and screening in the first trimester, including ultrasound scans, will be kept under review. Nuchal translucency scans are currently estimated to be available in about 8 per cent. of maternity units.