RIVM is coordinator of the UV index action platform, which was launched to reduce the number of people who develop skin cancer and eye conditions due to UV radiation. The platform aims to ensure alignment of the various measures to prevent skin cancer. In addition, it promotes new studies to fill gaps in essential knowledge about skin cancer, eye conditions and prevention.

The participating parties include the Ministries of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) and Social Affairs and Employment (SZW), the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute, the Dutch Society for Dermatology and Venereology, the Dutch Skin Fund, the Dutch Cancer Society, the Dutch Melanoma Foundation, the Dutch Association of Skin Therapists, Leiden University Medical Center, Academic Medical Center Amsterdam, University Medical Center Utrecht, Maastricht University Medical Center, the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation and the Municipal Public Health Services. For the prevention of cataracts, RIVM works with the Netherlands Ophthalmological Society and the Dutch Eye Fund.

Steering Group on Skin Cancer Care in the Netherlands

The Steering Group on Skin Cancer Care in the Netherlands was established in 2020 on the initiative of the Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation and the Dutch Society for Dermatology and Venereology. The steering group, of which many participating parties are also members of the UV index action platform, excels at keeping skin cancer at the top of the agenda. An example of this is the National Action Plan for Skin Cancer. The steering group drew up this plan and presented it to several new members of the House of Representatives. In addition, the steering group plays a role in driving the implementation and monitoring the results and effects of the National Action Plan. This was the basis for the Diertens motion. RIVM also takes part in the Steering Group on Skin Cancer Care in the Netherlands.