Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 December 2025
985. Deputy Marie Sherlock asked the Minister for Health the timeline for the HIQA and NASC evidence review to consider changes to the BreastCheck programme, particularly the proposed expansion of the age range eligibility to those aged 70-74 as conditionally recommended by the European Guidelines on Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [71830/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Health, I am committed to supporting our population screening programmes, which are a valuable part of our health service, enabling early treatment and care for many people, and improving the overall health of our population.
The Programme for Government commits to extending the ages for the BreastCheck Screening Programme, in line with updated standards from HIQA.
BreastCheck, the National Breast Screening Programme, currently invites women aged 50 to 69 years at regular intervals to have a screening mammogram. In Budget 2025, an additional €2.9 million was allocated to the BreastCheck programme to support the recruitment of 22 Whole Time Equivalent posts. This will assist in expanding and future-proofing the programme to meet increased demand.
I would note that any proposed changes to Ireland’s cancer screening programmes, will be facilitated through established evidence-driven protocols.
The National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) is the independent expert group that considers proposed changes to Ireland’s screening programmes. NSAC assesses the evidence in a robust and transparent manner and against internationally accepted criteria, before making recommendations to myself as Minister.
NSAC continues to progress work to consider the further expansion of our cancer screening programmes and has submitted several requests to the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA).
HIQA has commenced a Health Technology Assessment (HTA) to consider proposals for the expansion of the BreastCheck programme. This review will comprise two elements; the proposed extension of the age range eligibility to those aged 45-49 and 70-74, and also the potential introduction of a standardised breast density notification.
HTAs facilitate the assessment of relevant evidence and knowledge on the effects and consequences of healthcare technologies to guide decisions regarding the appropriate use of technology and efficient allocation of resources. They involve a multi-disciplinary assessment of the clinical, economic, ethical, legal and societal perspectives that may be impacted by the introduction of a new technology. They are time intensive and rigorous processes that must be afforded the necessary amount of time to complete, particularly so in the context of the current BreastCheck HTA which is considering three distinct areas, the potential to increase the age eligibility, to decrease the age eligibility and potential reporting of breast density.
Finally, I would emphasise that screening programmes are for people without symptoms. If anyone becomes aware of symptoms, or if they have concerns or worries, they should contact a medical professional immediately.
