Screening

Population screening programmes have a key role to play in early detection of disease and a range of programmes are currently available in Northern Ireland. The PHA has responsibility for commissioning, coordinating and quality assuring these programmes.

However, screening is not suitable for every condition. Organised screening programmes are only established on the recommendation of the UK National Screening Committee and according to the best available evidence. Any condition being considered as a screening programme must meet a number of stringent criteria before it is recommended by the Committee.

In Northern Ireland the PHA operates the following screening programmes:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening
• Antenatal screening
• Breast screening
• Bowel cancer screening
• Cervical cancer screening
• Diabetic retinopathy screening
• Newborn screening
• Farm families health checks programme