§ Kevin BrennanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to introduce a national service framework for respiratory disease; and if he will make a statement. [12691]
§ Jacqui Smith[holding answer 14 November 2001]: There are currently no plans to introduce a national service framework for respiratory disease. The NSF for older people recognised the importance of respiratory diseases to the health and well-being of older people. The NSF provides for a 10-year developing framework for action across health and social care and within this set arthritis and respiratory disease in older people as the next priorities for future work. The focus of this will be older people, but, much like the current NSF service models on stroke and dementia, such a service model will have implications for, and apply to, all who need these services, regardless of their age.
1193WThere is a range of Government initiatives already in place which take a preventive approach to respiratory disease and have long-term objectives to improve treatment and care. These include the investment of £53 million in smoking cessation services—smoking is the major cause of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)—and asking the National Institute for Clinical Excellence to prepare clinical guidelines for the national health service for the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer and the management and treatment of COPD.