More unhealthy behaviour among young people; their health remains vulnerable Fewer young people aged 12 to 16 are positive about their health than in previous years. In addition, their mental health has not recovered after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Aircraft noise: Focus follow-up research on annoyance caused by peak noise levels and structurally validating models RIVM is publishing four new studies in the context of the Programme-Based Approach to Measuring Aircraft Noise (PAMV). Two of these studies look at the quality of measurements and models.
Solar panel recycling could be more sustainable RIVM looked into ways being developed to reuse raw materials used in solar panels. The four ways described by RIVM in this report are more sustainable than how solar panels are currently recycled.
Approach needed to tackle polluting activities to protect drinking water sources In the Netherlands, we derive our drinking water from two sources: groundwater and river water. In many areas, the quality of this water is not adequate. The measures taken to improve the quality have yet to yield significant direct effects.
High impact of climate change on health, more knowledge needed on relations between effects The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly visible. RIVM analysed the health effects of climate change for the period 1991–2020. RIVM also investigated the impact of these effects and their likelihood.
Limited effects visible after 5 years of bundled payments in maternity care ‘Bundled payments’, the alternative payment model for maternity care in the Netherlands, has so far resulted in limited visible effects. Small changes in maternity care use and slightly reduced spending on maternity care are observed. Generally speaking, no changes in terms of the health of mothers and children are measured.
295 reports of suspected side effects of implants in 2023 In 2023, 295 individuals reported one or more suspected side effects of implants to RIVM’s Dutch Reporting Centre for Adverse Effects of Medical Implants (MEBI).
RIVM says goodbye to Jaap van Dissel After 11 years as Director of the Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Jaap van Dissel has stepped down to enjoy his well-deserved pension. During a symposium in honour of his retirement, RIVM Director-General Hans Brug awarded him the Jenner Medal, while outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte presented him with a royal distinction.
Radioactive material used in hospitals detected in sewage water RIVM has, for the first time, investigated the possibility of detecting radioactive substances in sewage. This appears to be the case, as RIVM has found iodine-131 and lutetium-177. Hospitals use these substances in the treatment of patients.
Remove ticks quickly, reduce your risk of Lyme disease Ticks are active again, as shown by the increase in tick bite reports on Tekenradar.nl. Quick action is important: the faster you remove a tick after it bites you, the lower your risk of contracting Lyme disease.