News | RIVM

No indication that investigated mesh implants used to treat pelvic organ prolapse are unsafe

RIVM has conducted a laboratory study into six mesh implants from different manufacturers used in the Netherlands in 2018. The study revealed no indication that these products are unsafe for patients.

Exposure to combination of chemicals appears to be too high, health risks unclear

The food and drinking water that people consume include chemicals that have effects on health. Among them are substances, such as lead, which are known to have a negative effect on intelligence or development of the brain.

More people sick as a result of food from their own kitchen

In 2021, the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and the Municipal Public Health Service (GGD) received 14% more reports of outbreaks of food-related infections than in 20

Hypersensitivity reactions to fillers may occur after COVID-19 vaccination

People may experience hypersensitivity reactions to fillers following a COVID-19 vaccination.

Chromium-6 from medical implants not harmful to health

Chromium-6 from medical implants, such as hip or knee implants, does not result in severe health damage.

Most reports received by MEBI in 2021 concerned copper IUDs

More reports of suspected adverse effects from copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) were made in 2021 than in previous years, according to the annual report of the Dutch reporting and expertise centre for adverse effects of medical implants (MEBI).

uitgestoken hand van arts met daarin een koperspiraaltje

Shortcomings in the technical documentation of mesh implants intended to treat pelvic organ prolapse used in the Netherlands

After a detailed assessment of the technical documentation of 9 different mesh implants intended to treat pelvic organ prolapse used in NL (2018) RIVM concludes that the safety and performance of these products were not properly substantiated.

Estimated costs of foodborne infections 140 million euros lower in 2020

In 2020, the estimated costs of foodborne infections in the Netherlands were 140 million euros lower than in the preceding year. This corresponds to a 30% decrease.

ANP

More reports of adverse effects of implants in 2019

In 2019, the Dutch reporting centre for adverse effects of medical implants (MEBI) received 397 reports of suspected adverse effects. The reports concerned 462 implants.

Mesh implants intended to treat pelvic organ prolapse

Synthetic mesh are used to treat patients with pelvic organ prolapse.