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.

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.

Since October 2022, is it has become easier for transgender and intersex persons to take part in cervical cancer screening and breast cancer screening. Transgender and intersex persons with a uterus and/or breast tissue can register with Bevolkingsonderzoek Nederland.

Last year, the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb received 1,462 reports of possible side effects from vaccines administered under the National Immunisation Programme. As was the case in previous years, no new, disconcerting side effects have

From 1 June 2022, the heel prick test for Dutch newborns will also screen for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a serious hereditary muscle condition. Detecting this disease at an early stage enables early treatment.

Immigrants are relatively less likely to take part in preventive screening programmes, such as cancer screening. This is partly due to the language barrier and a lack of knowledge, according to a doctoral thesis by Nora Hamdiui.

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

In 2020, fewer people fell ill from a disease against which vaccination is included in the National Immunisation Programme than in 2019. This is most likely due to coronavirus measures, such as social distancing, handwashing, and travel restrictions.