HC Deb 29 January 2002 vol 379 cc278-9W
Mr. George Howarth

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what scientific advice he has received on the relative merits of (a) cell research and (b) the further development of pharmaceutical products in developing a cure for type 1 diabetes. [30544]

Jacqui Smith

We have received no advice on the relative merits of cell research and the further development of pharmaceutical products in developing a cure for Type 1 diabetes. The Human Genetics Commission provides us with strategic advice on developments in human genetics and their social and ethical implications. To date, the Commission has given no advice relevant to cell research and diabetes. The Gene Therapy Advisory Committee has received no proposals for gene therapy research relating to diabetes and none is expected at present. We will, however, continue to monitor developments with interest.

Mr. George Howarth

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what advice his Department provides to primary care trusts and other health bodies on screening vulnerable individuals for early signs of the onset of diabetes. [30545]

Jacqui Smith

We have asked the UK National Screening Committee to assess the benefits and disbenefits of screening for Type 2 diabetes. The Committee has decided that further research, which may require some complex studies, is needed to inform its advice. It will report to the Department in 2005.

Mr. David Stewart

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people have(a) Type I and(b) Type II diabetes; and what research his Department has (i) commissioned and (ii) evaluated on (A) the costs to the health service of diabetic care, (B) the numbers of undiagnosed diabetics and (C) the costs and benefits of a high risk screening programme for Type II diabetes. [31279]

Jacqui Smith

An estimated 1.3 million people in England have diagnosed diabetes, of whom around 15 per cent, have Type 1 diabetes and around 85 per cent, have Type 2 diabetes. In addition, as many as 1 million people may have Type 2 diabetes without yet knowing it. Around 5 per cent. of total national health service resources is used for the care of people with diabetes. We see bringing clarity to the question of screening for Type 2 diabetes as a priority. We have asked the United Kingdom National Screening Committee to assess the benefits and disbenefits. The committee will make recommendations in 2005.