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.
Safety of materials and products already starts at the design phase The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management aims to ensure that all new materials and technological developments are safe in 2050.
More reports of adverse effects of implants in 2019 In 2019, the Dutch reporting centre for adverse effects of medical implants (MEBI) received 397 reports of suspected adverse effects. The reports concerned 462 implants.
Mesh implants intended to treat pelvic organ prolapse Synthetic mesh are used to treat patients with pelvic organ prolapse.
Slightly fewer adult smokers In 2018, 22.4 per cent of the Dutch adult population indicated they were occasional smokers.
Summary International Expert Meeting on breast implant-associated lymphoma On November 19th 2018, RIVM organised an international expert meeting on a rare type of lymphoma that is associated with breast implants.
Research: HPV vaccine is safe RIVM research shows no causal link between the vaccine against cervical cancer (HPV) and long-term fatigue symptoms in girls.
Rubber granulate on synthetic turf fields causes environmental impact Use of rubber granulate sourced from car tyres, on synthetic turf fields can be harmful to the environment in the close vicinity of these fields.
Scientific background information on rubber granulate now available in English In December 2016, RIVM published in Dutch the results of its research into the health risks of playing sports on synthetic turf pitches with rubber granulate.
Blood spot test extended as of 1 January 2017 to include two more disorders As of 1 January 2017, the disorders alpha and beta thalassaemia will be added to the neonatal blood spot (‘heel prick’) screening programme.