News | RIVM

Perceived health impact of COVID-19 pandemic differs widely among vulnerable people

The health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated measures is perceived very differently by vulnerable groups in society.

Half of post-traumatic stress disorder related to pandemic

In autumn 2022, 3.7% of adults in the Netherlands were suffering from suspected post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

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More STIs diagnosed in 2022, most significant increase in gonorrhoea

More people got tested for an STI at Sexual Health Centres (SHCs) in 2022 than in 2021. There were a total of 164,715 consultations at SHCs. The percentage of people found to have an STI (21%) was also higher than in 2021.

Fewer people feel healthy

In 2022, 7 out of 10 adults in the Netherlands perceived their own health as good or very good. In late 2020, this was still 8 out of 10 people. Furthermore, there are large differences between regions and population groups in this regard.

Significant increase in memory and concentration problems among adults

In the first quarter of 2023, there was a 24% increase in GP visits related to memory and concentration problems among adults (age 25 years and older) compared to the same period in 2020.. This is evidenced by the latest quarterly research update from the GOR Network.

Breast implants can cause health problems even five years or more after placement

Over the past 5 years, the Dutch reporting and expertise centre for adverse effects of medical implants (MEBI) has received 977 reports of health problems related to breast implants. An analysis by RIVM has shown that 39% of the reported health problems started 5 or more years after the implant’s placement.

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.

Municipal Public Health Services once again conduct more STI consultations than before COVID-19

The number of STI consultations at the Sexual Health Centres of the Municipal Public Health Services (GGDs) was 19% higher in 2022 compared to 2021.

No reduction in number of young people with suicidal thoughts

In March 2023, 14.1% of young people in the Netherlands (aged 12-25 years) reported seriously thinking about ending their life occasionally, often or very often.

More than half of young adults reported experiencing mental health problems

More than half of young adults (aged 16 to 25) in the Netherlands experience mental health problems. High levels of loneliness and suicidal thoughts are also observed in this age group. This is evident from the COVID-19 Health Monitor for Young Adults 2022