AQW 31821/22-27

Ms Claire Sugden
Independent
East Londonderry

Tabled Date: 23/09/2025
Answered On Date: 08/10/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to increase access to and uptake of genomic and germline testing for ovarian cancer patients.

Answer:

Patients in Northern Ireland who meet the criteria outlined in the National Genomic Test Directory criteria for germline testing related to ovarian cancer are eligible for testing via the Northern Ireland Regional Molecular Diagnostics Service (RMDS), based within the Belfast HSC Trust. This approach ensures equity across the UK.

In addition, Action 27 of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy provides a commitment to integrate genomic testing into cancer pathways, in line with NICE recommendations. This action is designed to improve access to genomic testing and enhance diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for cancer patients, including those with ovarian cancer.

Under the action, the RMDS sequences 3500 solid tumour samples per year. Where a potential germline disposition is identified, patients are fast tracked for confirmatory testing, allowing for personalised treatment and the identification of at-risk family members. Northern Ireland was the first region in the UK to undertake this revolutionary pathway at a population scale, enabled by investment from the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy. However, additional funding will be necessary to further extend this pathway to increase the number of solid tumour samples genomically sequenced per year.