News | RIVM

Age may play a role in the risk of asbestos cancer from short-term exposure

On average it takes roughly 40 years for amphibole asbestos to lead to mesothelioma after inhalation. An individual’s age at the time of exposure therefore affects the probability of their developing cancer (at a later stage).

Number of tuberculosis patients in the Netherlands increased slightly in 2021 compared to 2020

The number of people with tuberculosis (TB) in the Netherlands increased slightly in 2021, reaching 680. This figure is 9% higher than it was in 2020 (622 patients).

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.

Seasonal flu epidemic in the Netherlands

The flu epidemic in the Netherlands has started. The number of people with flu (influenza) increased significantly in the past two weeks.

Hardly any decrease in overweight, smoking and alcohol use since 2018

In 2021 half of all adults were overweight. 21% sometimes smoked, 7% were excessive drinkers and 8% heavy drinkers.

Groep mensen aan het sporten in een sportschool

RIVM monitoring local radiological measurements in Ukraine

Reports from Ukraine indicate that there was fighting in the vicinity of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant last night. RIVM has been actively monitoring the situation in Ukraine since the start of the disturbances.

RIVM calls for increased involvement of scientific community in solving plastic crisis

Industry and policymakers are not availing themselves enough of the available scientific knowledge when it comes to smarter ways of dealing with plastics.

Impact of coronavirus outbreak on participation in National Immunisation Programme limited

Participation in the vaccinations against mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) and diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus and polio) (DTaP-IPV) has decreased slightly among infants (-1%).

Vader en moeder spelen met jonge kinderen met speelgoed

Start cervical cancer screening on Saba

February 7th 2022, a pilot for population screening for cervical cancer will start on Saba. All women between 30 and 60 years, will be invited to participate in the coming three years.

RIVM expands HPV vaccination programme: girls and boys protected from six types of cancer with one vaccine

Now not only girls, but also boys will have the opportunity to protect themselves from cancer caused by HPV.