News | RIVM

From 1 June 2022, heel prick test also screens for muscle disease SMA, bringing number of screened diseases to 26

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.

Promising biobased alternatives to controversial polar aprotic solvents

There are a number of promising biobased alternatives to controversial polar aprotic solvents, as revealed in a report from Wageningen Food & Biobased Research commissioned by RIVM .

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.

Newborn heel prick screening starts on St Eustatius and Saba

On 26 October 2015, heel prick screening started for all newborns on St Eustatius and Saba.

RIVM seeks dialogue with Industry for safe and green chemistry

RIVM would like to explore possibilities to eliminate obstacles during innovation of green chemistry with industry.

Biobased alternatives to hormone disrupting substance in cash register receipts

Chemicals made from vegetable or animal waste may be an alternative to the use of the substance Bisphenol A (BPA) in thermal paper. Thermal paper is widely used for cash register receipts.

Promising biobased alternatives to substances of very high concern

There are many possible biobased alternatives to substances of very high concern (SVHC). Some are even ready to be deployed right away.