BreastCheck
263. Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there is an age limit of 65 years for BreastCheck; the reason an age limit was set; her views on changing same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [34576/05]
Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney): BreastCheck, the national breast screening programme is available to women in the 50 to 64 age group in the eastern, midland, north eastern and parts of the south eastern regions. More than 60% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in this country are under 65 years of age. The current priority of BreastCheck is to progress the roll out of the screening programme to women in the 50 to 64 age group in the remaining regions of the country. Following the national roll out and when the programme is sufficiently developed and quality assured, consideration will be given to extending the upper age limit. Any woman, irrespective of her age or residence, who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her general practitioner who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her area.