§ Dr. CableTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) how many people he expects to participate in the limited implementation HPV pilot scheme in(a) Newcastle, (b) north Bristol and (c) Norfolk and Norwich; [8499]
(2) how many people have taken part in the limited implementation HPV pilot scheme in (a) Newcastle, (b) north Bristol and (c) Norfolk and Norwich; and if the targets for the scheme have been met; [8498]
(3) what is the timescale for the implementation of the HPV screening programme following the completion of the trials;[8497]
(4) what plans he has to introduce screening for human papilloma virus into the national screening programme for cervical cancer; and if he will make a statement.[8482]
§ Jacqui Smith[holding answer 19 October 2001]: The pilot study of liquid based cytology and human papilloma virus testing as triage for women with mild or borderline abnormalities began in April 2001, as planned. Women with a mild or borderline screening result in the pilot will have an HPV test in accordance with the pilot protocol. In 2000–01, the number of cervical screening tests and the percentage of tests with a mild or borderline result for the three pilot site areas are shown in the table.
Pilot sites 2000–01 Newcastle North Bristol Norfolk and Norwich Number of women screened 54,000 54,000 30,000 Percentage of women with a borderline/mild abnormality 8 7 13 Source:
Statistical Bulletin—Cervical Screening Programme, England: 2000–01
The HPV arm of the pilot will end in September 2002. Analysis of the data will begin in October 2002, and the report of the evaluation of the pilot will be submitted in early 2003. The pilot study is expected to cost some £1.3 million.
The NHS Cancer Plan set out the commitment that if evaluation of the pilots is successful, the Government will fund their introduction across the national health service.