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.
From 1 October 2023, heel prick test also screens for metabolic disorder ALD From 1 October 2023, the blood of newborn babies will also be tested for the metabolic disorder adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD). This is done with the heel prick screening test.
Quick action needed to prevent drinking water shortage in 2030 The demand for drinking water will increase until at least 2030. The supply is under strain due to climate change and pollution. There are already regional shortages. If measures are not taken, shortages will occur throughout the Netherlands in 2030.
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
NIPT available as standard option for all pregnant women from 1 April From 1 April 2023, the Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) will be available to all pregnant women. They do not have to take part in a scientific study for this.
Mpox vaccinations in 2022 More than 18 thousand people in the Netherlands have received one or more mpox vaccinations. The vaccination campaign was launched late last July, shortly after the outbreak began, and ended last month. Science Photo Library / ANP
People working from home more likely to have health problems People who worked from home during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to have physical complaints than people working on location (location workers). Examples included upper back pain, lower back pain, and pain in arms, neck and/or shoulders. These findings are from RIVM research.
New risk limits for 18 pesticides in surface water Evidence suggests that existing standards for some of these substances do not sufficiently protect the ecosystem. For others, no standards exist yet or the existing standards are outdated. If these
RIVM describes building blocks of future-proof soil strategy Soil use is becoming increasingly intensive. From use for agriculture and housing construction to recreation and infrastructure. At the same time, we also depend on the soil-watersystem for a healthy living environment, restore biodiversity, countering climate change, energy transition, absorption of rainwater and keeping groundwater clean.
More attention needed for potential impact of drug waste on drinking water quality Drug waste contains substances that are harmful to the quality of drinking water. Because this waste is dumped illegally, these substances can end up in sources of drinking water.