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News 2011
SCCS - 9 New opinions open for comments (Deadline for comments: 3 February 2012) »
The opinions have been approved for adoption by the SCCS in its most recent plenary meeting and are now open for comments by applicants, national authorities and other interested parties for a period of four weeks after publication
Committee on National Alcohol Policy and Action, Brussels, 17 November 2011 »
Presentations and summary report
European Medicines Agency formalises interaction with healthcare professionals»
The European Medicines Agency has set out its plans to establish regular interaction with a network of European organisations representing doctors, nurses and pharmacists.
The WHO e-atlas of disaster risk for the European Region. »
This e-atlas models the distribution of five natural hazards – seismic activity, floods, landslides, heat-waves and winds – and populations’ exposure to them in 32 countries of the European Region.
Public consultation on the preliminary opinion concerning Improvement of Risk Assessment in View of the Needs of Risk Managers»
In line with its procedures for stakeholder dialogue, published on 15 September 2007, the European Commission is launching a public consultation on the above-mentioned preliminary opinion.
Public consultation on SCCS preliminary opinion on fragrance allergens in cosmetics»
The report identifies scented substances known or believed to cause allergies in consumers and explores how to set safe use levels.
Public consultation on the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) – preliminary opinion on nitrosamines and secondary amines in cosmetics»
The SCCS opinion examines the possible health risks that may be associated with the presence of nitrosamines in cosmetic products.
Ex-smokers are unstoppable - iCoach: a special gift for the festive season.»
Take the chance to offer a very special gift: a magical origami heart containing an iCoach registration code that can be offered to friends and family encouraging them to sign up to quit smoking for good.
While epidemics have not yet started across Europe there is still time to protect yourself against influenza»
The latest edition of the Weekly Influenza Surveillance Report shows that Europe is still reporting low influenza activity.
EU study assesses obesity prevalence rates»
Researchers believe obesity raises people's risk of suffering from chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers.
Less harmful pain relief on the way as researchers work out how paracetamol works»
A team of researchers has discovered how one of the most common household painkillers works, meaning pain relief medication with less harmful side effects could soon be a reality.
Latest analysis highlights changing trends in illicit production of amphetamine in Europe»
The report describes how patterns and trends are changing in the production and trafficking of this widely used synthetic stimulant and the chemicals used in its manufacture. It also looks at the people and organisations involved, and the scale of the problem in a global context.
Measuring greenhouse gas emissions: focus of two new EU-funded projects»
Two new EU-funded projects that aim to investigate how we measure greenhouse gases have just got under way.
ECHA's new website»
ECHA launched a new visual and corporate identity together with a brand new website
Key interventions to reduce maternal, newborn and child deaths»
A new study, Essential interventions, commodities and guidelines for reproductive, maternal, newborn and child health, describes key evidence-based interventions that will sharply reduce these numbers, with a specific focus on how to allocate limited resources for maximum impact on the health of women and children.
European drug prevention quality standards: a manual for prevention professionals »
The EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) launches the first European ‘how to’ guide on conducting high-quality drug prevention.
Occupational safety and health culture assessment»
The new report from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) presents the main approaches and methods to assess the safety culture in an organisation.
Report on alcohol, work and productivity»
This scientific opinion of the Science Group of the European Alcohol and Health Forum summarises the most recent evidence on the linkages between harmful drinking and productivity.
Women’s health in prison: Action guidance and checklists to review current policies and practices»
The checklists in this document are an important tool in ensuring greater safety and better quality medical care for women in prison, and are designed to assist a review of current policies and practices relating to women’s health in prisons.
Malaria deaths are down but progress remains fragile»
This is the result of a significant scaling-up of malaria prevention and control measures in the last decade, including the widespread use of bed nets, better diagnostics and a wider availability of effective medicines to treat malaria.
The impact of health and health behaviours on educational outcomes in high-income countries: a review of the evidence»
This publication reviews current knowledge, especially in high-income countries, and finds evidence of a causal link.
Diagnosis-related groups in Europe»
Diagnosis-related group systems were introduced throughout Europe for similar reasons: to increase transparency, and to improve efficiency and assure quality in hospitals.
Tropical disease experts report missed opportunity to transform global HIV/AIDS fight»
Global HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment efforts are missing a major opportunity to significantly improve health conditions in poor countries by simply adding low-cost care for the many other chronic and disabling diseases routinely afflicting and often killing these same patients.
Linking up cancer registries: EU-funded project on track»
Taking stock on the progress of an EU-funded project that aims to link up European cancer registries was the aim of a recent summit organised by the European Cancer Organisation (ECCO).
Psychological first aid: guide for field workers»
This guide was developed in order to have psychological first aid materials for use in low- and middle-income countries. It reflects the emerging science and international consensus on how to support people in the immediate aftermath of extremely stressful events.
Mental Health and Human Rights – a hidden emergency »
WHO has launched its QualityRights Project, which aims to improve the quality and human rights conditions in mental health and social care facilities and empower civil society organizations to advocate for the rights of people with mental and psychosocial disabilities.
Meningitis vaccination campaign to reach 300 million by 2016»
Chad has launched a mass campaign to vaccinate nearly 2 million people against meningitis A, the primary cause of epidemic meningitis in sub-Saharan Africa.
10th anniversary of Global Health Security Initiative (GHSI)»
Commissioner Dalli, ministers and the Director-General of the World Health Organization met in Paris to mark GHSI's 10th anniversary and to discuss future collaboration in the interest of global health security.
EMCDDA launches first European quality standards to improve drug prevention in the EU»
‘Prevention’ is one of the first issues to be mentioned in the public debate on drugs, but evidence of what works in practice to prevent drug use is often overlooked. Today the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) launches the first European ‘how to’ guide on conducting high-quality drug prevention.
Diagnosis-related groups in Europe»
Diagnosis-related group systems were introduced throughout Europe for similar reasons: to increase transparency, and to improve efficiency and assure quality in hospitals.
Workshop on the preparation of Final Payments»
On 14 November 2011 a workshop entitled “Preparation of Final Payment" was organized by the Executive Agency for Health and Consumers (EAHC). The purpose of the workshop was to highlight the most important financial issues occurring when preparing the final report of a project or a joint action co-funded under the EU Health programme.
Supporting the local production of medicines»
A new framework identifies the main challenges and obstacles to the local production of medical products. Knowing how to circumvent these obstacles can increase local access to medicines and improve health.
Health Programme: Adoption of 2012 annual work plan and publication of call for proposals published»
The work plan has been adopted on 1 December and published with the call for proposals on 8 December. Read the documents.
Better protection against a broader range of cross-border health threats»
On 8 December 2011, the European Commission adopted a legal proposal to better protect European citizens from a wide range of serious cross-border health threats.
EU-funded scientists uncover gene that causes spread of skin cancer»
A new EU-funded study has pinpointed the specific gene that must be present before malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, can spread.
Climate changes weigh on health »
Climate changes, such as extreme weather, changing patterns of drought and rainfall and increased levels of air pollution all affect health, from food security and nutrition to patterns of infectious disease transmission.
Alzheimer Europe survey shows overwhelming public support for greater investment in dementia care and research»
Results of an international survey reveal that the majority of respondents in each of the five countries surveyed wish to see government spending increased both on research into treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and caring for people with this condition.
EU Health Prize for Journalists: EU jury members have convened in Brussels »
On 1 December 2011, the EU jury members convened to appoint the Winners of the 2011 edition of the EU Health Prize for Journalists. The winners will be announced at the ceremony in Brussels on 31 January 2012.
Statement by Commissioner John Dalli: Another step forward: more accuracy on health claims on food »
In a meeting of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health, Member States supported the European Commission's draft Regulation to adopt a list of permitted health claims for use on food.
Tuberculosis and HIV co-infection: do we have a surveillance system in Europe?»
To control TB and HIV co-infection, which, together with multidrug-resistant TB, is today the hardest obstacle to overcome in curbing the TB epidemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) promotes a specific package, included in the second element of the Stop TB Strategy.
Society for AIDS in Africa unveils its new strategic plan for 2011- 2015 »
The Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA) launched its Strategic Plan for 2011 - 2015 at the side-lines of the 16th International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA).
Scientists find way to design new brain drugs»
A Belgian-British team of researchers has found a way to design drugs able to target specific areas of the brain.
ERC awards German researcher EUR 2.5 million for liver disease research»
A German researcher hopes to develop therapeutic strategies to slow or even reverse the pathological development of fibrous connective tissue in body organs.
EFSA advises on safety of bisphenol A and confirms review of opinion in 2012 »
At the request of the European Commission, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a statement on bisphenol A (BPA) in response to September 2011 reports by the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety.
EU-funded researchers get to grips with genetics of blood cell formation »
In a new major EU-funded study into the genetics of blood cell formation a team of international scientists has identified 68 regions of the genome that affect platelet size and number.
One billion people live with disabilities»
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities allowing them to be full and active participants in society.
European Alcohol and Health Forum (EAHF) – 3rd monitoring progress report »
The report sees a clear improvement in the quality of information provided in the forum members’ annual monitoring reports.
Joint meeting of High Level Group on Nutrition and Physical Activity and Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity and Health, 29 November 2011»
Excerpts from Commissioner Dalli's keynote address and statement, plus video and pictures.
Joining together to tackle HIV/AIDS in Europe »
The European Health Programmes 2003–2008 and 2008–2013 have funded more than 60 projects to tackle the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This brochure describes some of the most successful.
Prevention and control of infectious diseases in people who inject drugs»
The joint guidance report from ECDC and EMCDDA explores good public health practices that can support effective policies to reduce infections.
HIV/AIDS surveillance in Europe 2010 »
This report, prepared jointly by ECDC and WHO Europe, presents data on HIV and AIDS for the whole European Region, including the EU and EEA countries.
Statement by EU and Member States on World AIDS Day (1 December 2011)»
The European Union and its Member States reaffirmed their commitment to support all those who live with HIV or are otherwise affected by the epidemic.
No signs for a decline in HIV transmission across Europe: new ECDC–WHO/Euro report »
These evidence-based guidance reports aim to assist in shaping effective national HIV/AIDS policies as both people who inject drugs as well as HIV positive persons who are unaware of their infection are main populations at risk for transmission of HIV.
HIV cases continue to rise in Europe: WHO European Region launches new action plan to bring the epidemic under control»
The HIV epidemic is still not under control, according to a new surveillance report issued.
EU drugs report: vigilance needed to tackle fast moving markets »
The report confirms the recent trend: a slow transition from "traditional" cocaine, marijuana and opiates towards new synthetic drugs.
Significant global progress in preventing and treating HIV»
The new Report on the global HIV/AIDS response released today, shows inspiring progress with a 15% reduction of new infections and a 22% decline in deaths.
Joint meeting of the High Level Group on Nutrition and Physical Activity and the Platform for Action on Diet, Physical Activity and Health, 29 November 2011 - watch the video and pictures »
Extracts from the keynote address and statement by Commissioner Dalli
Fighting Parkinson's with carbon nanoparticles»
The study is an outcome of the NOBLESSE ('Nanotechnology, biomaterials and alternative energy source for the European Research Area (ERA))' project.
Healthy diet and physical activity: Commissioner Dalli to urge action to prevent non communicable diseases»
John Dalli commended the achievements of governments and Platform members in addressing unhealthy diets and physical activity in the EU since the adoption in 2007 of an EU Strategy to address obesity and overweight related issues.
2011 annual report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe, press conference highlights »
Highlights from the speech of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) Director, Wolfgang Götz, on the occasion of the launch of the 2011 annual report on the state of the drugs problem in Europe 15 November 2011, Lisbon.
New report on Diet, Physical Activity and Cardio Vascular Disease (CVD) Prevention in Europe»
The European Heart Network - an EPHA member - publishes a report on Diet, Physical Activity and Cardio Vascular Disease (CVD) Prevention in Europe, which represents the most up to date review of the evidence on the relationship between CVDs and nutrition and physical activity.
New OECD report : Invest in prevention and management of chronic diseases»
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development published the 6th edition of ’Health at Glance’, which provides the latest comparable data on health systems across all 34 OECD countries. Although the quality of medical care has improved, the findings highlight the importance of strengthening prevention.
Study suggests link between early Alzheimer's disease and low body mass index (BMI)»
People in the earliest stages of Alzheimer's disease may be more likely to have a lower body mass index according to a study published in Neurology (Monday 21 November 2011).
Older people being put at risk by substandard care»
People with dementia and other older people are being put at risk and having their human rights breached by poor quality care a new report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) claims.
10th Anniversary of the Health Security Committee»
The main role of the HSC is to ensure protection of human health during crises.
Scientists find link between vascular endothelial growth factor and skin cancer stem cell regulation»
Identifying how cancer stem cells and tumour growth are regulated is one of the biggest challenges oncology scientists face.
How much salt is enough? Researchers say we need to think again!»
New findings from an international team of researchers suggest that having either excessively high or low levels of salt can put people who suffer from conditions such as heart disease or diabetes more at risk of cardiovascular problems.
New EU-funded project to improve health research and education in Africa»
A new platform for improving health research and education in Africa has just been set up by the European Commission. Researchers involved in this project hail from Belgium, Cameroon, Egypt, Ghana, Mali, Spain, and Switzerland.
High level meeting of the Committee on National Alcohol Policy and Action – Flash report available »
For the first time Member States were represented at senior level, in addition to regular CNAPA members.
Health professional mobility and health systems. Evidence from 17 European countries»
This publication presents research on the gaps in knowledge about the numbers, trends, impacts and policy responses to this dynamic situation, in particular in Austria, Belgium, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey and the United Kingdom.
Antimicrobial resistance: frequently asked questions»
Read the frequently asked questions about antimicrobial resistance published by WHO.
Study proposes programme to help keep elderly in work»
One of the biggest challenges facing Europeans is how the number of people able to provide for the ageing population is shrinking.
Scientists find link between heart ruptures and heart attacks»
Scientists in Belgium, the Netherlands and the United States have identified a single protein called the CaM kinase that plays a role in the biochemical cascade that triggers a cardiac rupture.
Hidden risk of accidental paracetamol overdose, warn scientists»
New findings from a team of Scottish researchers have shown that taking too much paracetamol on a regular basis puts patients at high risk of an accidental overdose.
Improving the health of women and children in Afghanistan »
The health system in Afghanistan continues to face many challenges – including a shortage of skilled female health-care workers and family planning services.
International scientific conference on electromagnetic fields and health – conclusions»
At this Brussels conference (16-17 Nov.), scientists from across the globe discussed the latest evidence concerning electromagnetic fields and health.
National registry and regional/interregional registries for rare diseases. Year 2011 report»
This report describes the surveillance system for Rare Diseases (RD) in Italy. The report consists of chapters providing information on: the European framework on RD initiatives...
Flash Report: High level meeting of the Committee on National Alcohol Policy and Action (CNAPA)»
The 9th meeting of the Committee on National Alcohol Policy and Action (CNAPA) took place on 17 November 2011. For the first time Member States were represented at senior level,
Workshop on Good practices for the Classification of Medicines»
On 8-9 November 2011, the Committee of Experts on the classification of medicines as regards their supply organised its first workshop on good practices.
Nearly 50% of people who are eligible for antiretroviral therapy now have access to lifesaving treatment»
A new report by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), released today shows that 2011 was a game changing year for the AIDS response with unprecedented progress in science, political leadership and results.
Universal Access To Malaria Diagnostic Testing»
Recent 2011 resolutions on malaria from the UN General Assembly and the World Health Assembly have highlighted the importance of malaria diagnostic testing in reaching 2015 goals.
Let your child sleep and play their way to a healthy weight»
Getting enough sleep can help children maintain a healthy weight, reveals the EU funded project IDEFICS.
Remembering road traffic victims »
Road traffic accidents result in about 1.3 million deaths and up to 50 million injuries each year.
Prognostic and predictive markers in colorectal cancer: implications for clinical management»
Efforts to find genetic patterns may offer the basis for identifying subgroups of colorectal cancer similar to those now used in breast cancer.
Reducing cancer: international community moves from resolution to action»
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and its partners, including WHO, have developed a resolution that specifies the actions governments and societies should take to reduce preventable deaths from cancer.
Global AIDS Response Progress Reporting 2012»
UNAIDS releases global guidelines to monitor progress on the implementation of the 2011 Political Declaration on HIV/AIDS
Scientists investigate how genetic factors influence depression»
French researchers have been investigating the amygdala, a part of the brain that is hyperactive in individuals who suffer from anxiety and depression, and have found that genetic factors have an influence on patient's cerebral activity.
Patient perspective on antimicrobial resistance – a video documentary »
This year, a new video produced by Euronews in collaboration with ECDC features real life examples of the experiences of patients affected by resistant bacteria.
Have your say about the Commission Public Health website »
Until 9 December 2011, you can participate in a 10 question online survey.
European Antibiotic Awareness Day 2011: ECDC releases new surveillance data and real life stories of patients with resistant bacteria»
On the occasion of the 4th European Antibiotic Awareness Day, ECDC releases new European-wide surveillance data on antibiotic resistance from the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (EARS-Net).
Reducing tobacco use lessens chronic obstructive pulmonary disease »
An estimated 64 million people have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). More than 3 million people died of COPD in 2005 and almost 90% of these deaths occurred in low- and middle-income countries.
"Ex-smokers are unstoppable" – Athens marathon, 12-13 November 2011»
Photos of the event organised with the help of the EU anti-tobacco campaign.
ECDC annual epidemiological report 2011»
An annual picture of the state of infectious diseases in Europe and an analysis of threats detected in 2010.
European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing – 3rd Steering Group meeting»
The Strategic Implementation Plan was adopted on 7 November 2011.
EMCDDA annual report 2011»
The EU drug agency's report provides the latest data and commentary on the drug situation across the 27 EU Member States, Croatia, Turkey and Norway.
Launch of European portal for action on health inequalities»
The new website, created by the Equity Action partnership, provides information on health inequalities at EU, national and regional levels, social determinants of health and health in all policies.
Consumers: EU move to reduce cigarette-ignited fires to save hundreds of lives each year »
Cigarettes left unattended are one of the leading causes of fatal fires in Europe. Evidence shows that the number of fatalities can be reduced by over 40% with the introduction of 'Reduced Ignition Propensity' (RIP) cigarettes i.e. cigarettes which self-extinguish when left unattended and are less likely to cause fire.
Long-term mental health care for people with severe mental disorders »
The provision of long-term mental health care for people with severe mental disorders has been, and still is, one of the major challenges for mental health systems reform in the last decades, for various reasons.
Scientists develop test for residual pesticides from vegetable feed in farmed fish»
A team of German scientists has shown that fish from fish farms are increasingly at risk from pesticide contamination due to the vegetable matter they are being fed. T
Pneumonia is the leading cause of death in children »
Pneumonia kills 1.4 million children under the age of five every year – more than AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis combined.
Diet and physical activity: a public health priority»
Unhealthy diets and physical inactivity are key risk factors for the major noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes.
Health for Growth - Proposal for the 3rd multi-annual programme 2014-2020»
A legislative proposal for a new Health for Growth Programme during the period 2014-2020 has been adopted by the European Commission on 9 November 2011.
EU Health Prize for Journalists 2011: english translations of the finalists' articles are published online»
Take a look and enjoy the read!
EU Budget 2014-2020: Commission unveils new and ambitious Health and Consumer Programmes »
The European Commission adopted proposals for the new Health for Growth and Consumer Programmes. The two programmes aim to foster a Europe of healthy, active, informed and empowered citizens, who can contribute to economic growth.
High blood pressure increases risk of cognitive decline»
Vascular risk factors, including high blood pressure and signs of heart disease, increase your chance of developing cognitive problems according to a study published in Neurology.
Residues compliance continues to rise, pesticide report shows»
EFSA has published its third Annual Report on Pesticide Residues, which shows that 97.4% of the samples analysed fell within the permitted Maximum Residue Levels, a rise of about one percentage point since 2008.
Ozone and particulates most serious air quality problems in Europe»
Air quality in Europe has improved between 1990 and 2009, as emissions of most pollutants have fallen, according to a new report from the European Environment Agency (EEA).
Role of stem cells in mammary gland development»
A European team of scientists has identified new populations of breast stem cells that guarantee the creation, expansion and maintenance of the diverse cell lineages of the mammary gland during pregnancy and throughout life
Binge drinking more common in northern Europe»
The relationship between drinking and damage to one's health is stronger in the Baltic countries and Sweden than in Italy, new research from Europe shows.
Medical waste poses an important threat to health »
Some 20% of all medical waste is considered hazardous material that may be infectious, toxic or radioactive.
Innovation Union: agreement on actions to turn ageing into an opportunity»
The European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing has adopted priority actions to ensure the average European citizen has two more active and healthy years to live by 2020. Five specific actions will be launched in 2012.
Counterfeit medical products: twelve countries join the Council of Europe Medicrime Convention»
Twelve countries have paved the way for the implementation of the Medicrime Convention by signing on October 28, at the end of a two-day conference, the first international treaty which establishes as offences the manufacturing, the supplying and the trafficking of counterfeit medical products.
WHO's Executive Board supports reform proposals»
The Executive Board of the World Health Organization (WHO) ended a three-day special session with Member States expressing strong support for WHO's work and reaching agreement on broad proposals for reform.
Blood, tissues and organs»
Second Journalist Workshop on organ donation and transplantation, Brussels, 18 October 2011 - Articles published after the workshop updated
Minister calls for new approaches on antipsychotic drugs reduction »
Last November the Department of Health set a target to reduce antipsychotic prescriptions to people with dementia by two thirds in a year.
Recognition of prescriptions issued in other EU countries»
The Commission consults stakeholders to see how the recognition of cross-border prescriptions could be improved.
ECDC training programme on public health microbiology (EUPHEM) starts new fellowship cohort and releases dedicated website»
A new cohort of fellows started the European Programme for Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM) fellowships
Pilot study on wholesale drug prices in Europe»
The European Union Drug Strategy for the period 2009–12 sets the goal to yield concrete and identifiable improvements concerning the knowledge of drugs trafficking.
Stress code in the spotlight»
Researchers at the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom have identified a specific protein generated by the brain in response to stress. Their findings could help boost our understanding of stress-related psychiatric diseases in people, particularly in knowing how the human brain deals with stress and how it eases its impact.
Ageing: study shows active life leads to more quality years»
A new study from Swedish researchers has shown that regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of suffering depression in old age.
Women and cancer: screening and treatment save lives»
One in five women in the WHO European Region will get cancer before the age of 75.
EUFIC’s multilingual online tool helps consumers understand energy balance»
This consumer-friendly tool is now available in 9 languages with the recent addition of Hungarian and Polish (in addition to English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Greek and Portuguese). The Energy Balance Tool, which has attracted 150,000 visitors, has been evaluated by EFAD (the European Federation of Associations of Dietitians).
Video on patients' rights in cross-border healthcare»
This video gives an overview of the EU law that clarifies the right for patients to be treated in another EU country and to be reimbursed for it.
Health risks from mobile phone radiation – why the experts disagree»
Mobile phones and other digital devices are now a big part of modern life – but are they dangerous?
Mental Health Atlas 2011»
This atlas represents the latest estimate of global mental health resources available to prevent and treat mental disorders and help protect the human rights of people living with these conditions.
Over two-thirds of early child deaths could be prevented »
Each year 7.6 million children under the age of five die worldwide. Pneumonia, diarrhoea, malaria and health problems during the first month of life are the main cause of mortality.
Out of the Dark: An implementers’ guide to managing TB in children»
This report outlines the current state of paediatric TB care, looking at current practices, new developments and research needs – in paediatric TB diagnosis, treatment and prevention.
Housing Works to improve the lives of people living with HIV in the United States»
This project is an example of how an integrated approach to social welfare improves the lives of vulnerable people by providing them with hope and restoring their dignity.
Health risks from mobile phone radiation – why the experts disagree»
Mobile phones and other digital devices are now a big part of modern life – but are they dangerous?
Support youth now to secure better future: UNFPA report»
As October draws to a close, a new tally of the global population does as well. In its latest report, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reveals how the planet is now home to 7 billion people.
Healthy ageing important with increasing life expectancy »
The world will soon have more older people than children. For World Health Day 2012, WHO will focus on preparing health providers and societies to meet the health needs of older populations.
European Commission launches new website on the non-food Scientific Committees »
The new website offers up-to-date information on all open consultations and calls, scientific opinions, mandates, upcoming events, and much more. A new layout has been designed to give easier access to these documents and show the scientific independence of the Committees.
A literature review of trust and reputation management in communicable disease public health»
For public health organisations involved in communicable disease control, trust and reputation management is vital. In the event of a disease outbreak these organisations need to be seen as a credible source and must communicate messages to calm public fears.
ECDC Director speaks on reinforcing trust, key role of doctors, healthcare workers to reach EU vaccination goals»
The role of doctors and healthcare workers in direct contact with parents and children is paramount," said ECDC Director Dr. Marc Sprenger at the World Health Summit in Berlin, Germany.
EFN Secretary General Supports EU Anti-Smoking Campaign»
As part of the EU’s anti-smoking campaign “Ex-smokers are unstoppable”, DG Sanco recently released an information package containing testimonies from ex-smokers and smokers trying to quit from each of the 27 EU Member States as well as two videos, TV Marathon and TV Pregnant, which aim to empower and enhance the campaign.
Video on rare diseases launched »
A video presenting European initiatives for rare diseases and featuring Commissioner for Health and Consumers, Mr John Dalli, was presented at the Rare Diseases Conference 2011.
Reducing salt intake»
In many countries in the WHO European Region, more than two thirds of all salt consumed is hidden in processed foods and snacks or food products (such as bread and cheese).
Fighting counterfeit medical products: Council of Europe Medicrime Convention launched»
The Council of Europe, the Russian Ministry of Public Health and Social Development and the Federal Service on Surveillance in Healthcare and Social Development are looking to give a boost to the fight against counterfeit medical products and similar crimes.
Press pack - Cluster meeting of projects in the area of rare diseases (Luxembourg, 25 – 26 October 2011) »
The European Commission Public Health Programme defines rare diseases as life-threatening or chronically debilitating diseases which are of such low prevalence that special combined efforts are needed to address them. The term low prevalence is later defined as generally meaning fewer than 1 in 2,000 people.
Young people to write new UNAIDS strategy on youth and HIV»
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) is launching CrowdOutAIDS.org, an online collaborative project to crowdsource its new strategy on youth and HIV—a first in the UN system.
Towards a stronger European response to drugs»
Europe is facing new challenges in the field of drugs, notably illicit drug trafficking, the rapid spread of new psychoactive substances and reducing the demand for illicit drugs. The EU has unveiled plans to tackle these problems.
IQ rises and falls during teenage years»
Teenage years are all about changes in development, hormones and stress. But that is not all. New research from the United Kingdom shows how the intelligence quotient (IQ), a score generated from one of several different standardised tests designed to assess intelligence, can either significantly rise or fall during adolescence.
Polio cases have decreased by over 99% »
On World Polio Day 2011, only Afghanistan, India, Nigeria and Pakistan remain polio-endemic compared to over 125 polio-endemic countries in 1988. The last remaining per cent is now the target of intense efforts.
European Week for Safety and Health at Work puts spotlight on safe maintenance »
Safe maintenance is the focus of this year’s European Week for Safety and Health at Work (24 - 28 October) with a series of awareness-raising events, including workshops, seminars and exhibitions taking place all over Europe.
Close to you: Active aging in the Netherlands »
EuroparlTV went to Eindhoven to meet the participants of a debate on the aging EU population, ahead of the European Year of Active Aging in 2012.
Are the EU School Milk and School Fruit Schemes are effective? Report from the European Court of Auditors»
The European Union’s School Milk Scheme (SMS) and School Fruit Scheme (SFS) aim to encourage children to eat healthily by consuming dairy products and fruit and vegetables, and to contribute to improving the market for these products.
New report: Prevention and control of infectious diseases among people who inject drugs»
This joint guidance report explores good public health practices that can support effective policies to reduce infections. Common blood-borne viruses in this group include HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
New EU report: "Impact of engineered nanomaterials on health: considerations for benefit-risk assessment" »
The joint JRC-EASAC Report focuses on key principles and issues, crossreferencing other sources for detailed information, rather than attempting a comprehensive account of the science. The focus is on human health although environmental effects are also discussed when directly relevant to human health.
"Nutrition Research Highlights" new issue on diabetes and obesity, and an assessment of the nutritional composition of organic and conventional plant foods»
The 'Nutrition Research Highlight' newsletter is addressed to EU policy makers and the general public. It features recent nutrition research highlights with relevance to current societal debates or policies.
Safety of Nanomaterials: EU Joint Research Centre and European Academies Science Advisory Council present state-of-the-art report »
The joint EASAC-JRC report makes a number of recommendations to stakeholders and policy makers.
Study suggests chemotherapy during pregnancy won't affect baby»
Scientists in Belgium, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands have discovered that the development of the babies' mental processes as well as the normal functioning of their hearts remains intact.
Alcohol abuse: Commissioner John Dalli urges stakeholders to strengthen efforts to protect young people from alcohol-related harm»
Commissioner Dalli will appeal to industry, civil society and the public health community to strengthen efforts to protect young people from alcohol-related harm.
European Food Safety Agency launched consultation on neurological and psychological health claims»
The European Food Safety Authority seeks views on draft guidance for neurological and psychological health claim requirements. The deadline for comments is 16 December.
Use of human embryo stem cells for scientific research not patentable»
A process cannot be patented if it involves the removal of a stem cell from a human embryo at the blastocyst stage which destroys that embryo, the Court rules.
EU defines nanomaterial as step towards protecting public health»
Nanomaterials are those in which the main constituents are between 1 and 100 billionth of a metre, as defined by a Commission recommendation. The definition will be used as a legal reference.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) provides EUR 200 million for Finnish hospital modernisation»
Hospital patients in the greater Helsinki region will from 2014 be received in significantly modernised, extended and better equipped facilities thanks to an investment programme partly financed by the European Investment Bank (EIB).
New publication from EU Drug agency (EMCDDA) on Lithuania»
National report 2010 on Lithuania: - New Development, Trends and In-depth Information on selected issues
The European Platform against Poverty and Social Exclusion winds up its convention»
More than 400 participants took part in the first convention of the European Platform against Poverty and Social Exclusion, held in Cracow on 17th-18thOctober 2011.
New research project TOBI about inflammation in obese patients»
The TOBI project aims to analyse mechanisms provoking adipokine-mediated crosstalk and an inflammatory drift in obese patients.
Emergency workers need better occupational safety and health (OSH) protection »
A new report shows that emergency workers have a high risk of suffering fatal accidents, injuries and other occupational diseases.
ECDC refreshes its homepage»
ECDC is today launching a refreshed version of its homepage to further improve the accessibility of its information. Following discussions with our users, usability recommendations and web statistics analysis, the look and feel of the ECDC homepage has been changed to allow clarity of navigation and use of available resources.
Child-friendly health care: the views and experiences of children and young people in Council of Europe member States»
The Council of Europe guidelines on child-friendly health care are designed to provide a framework to ensure that health care systems operate in line with best practice in children’s health care and fulfil commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and other international standards.
Blood, tissues and organs»
Second Journalist Workshop - Organ donation and transplantation Programme and list of contact points available
Global Mental Health 2011»
The subjects of the papers were chosen after consultation with the Movement for Global Mental Health, an international coalition of professionals and the public that is committed to improving access to mental health care and promoting the human rights of people affected by mental illness worldwide.
Health professional mobility and health systems. Evidence from 17 European countries»
This publication presents research on the gaps in knowledge about the numbers, trends, impacts and policy responses to this dynamic situation.
Adapting to today’s epidemic: UNESCO launches its new AIDS Strategy»
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recently launched a new AIDS strategy intended to meet the needs of the changing face of the AIDS epidemic.
Conference report - 'European Perspectives in Personalised Medicine'»
The full report from the conference 'European Perspectives in Personalised Medicine', which took place in Brussels on 12-13 May 2011, is now online.
Progress in confronting malaria »
Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected mosquitoes.
European Health Forum Gastein 2011 - The Movie now available »
EHFG was founded in 1998 as a European health policy conference with the aim of providing a platform for discussion for the various stakeholders in the field of public health and health care. See the video of the latest edition.
Join the advisory structure of the scientific committees and database of experts»
Deadline for applications is 15 November 2011.
Scientists say high blood pressure could raise cancer risk»
Researchers in Europe have discovered that high blood pressure potentially raises the risk of developing cancer or dying from the disease.
WHO Europe on Violence and injuries: next steps in prevention»
The sixth meeting of the network of European health ministry focal persons for violence and injury prevention took place in Oslo, Norway on 11–12 October, attended by 70 participants from 37 countries in the WHO European Region.
WHO Europe publishes roadmap to prevent and combat drug-resistant tuberculosis»
Roadmap to prevent and combat drug-resistant tuberculosis. The Consolidated Action Plan to Prevent and Combat Multidrug- and Extensively Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in the WHO European Region 2011–2015
The European Patients' Forum (EPF) welcomes the revised Commission proposals on Information to Patients»
Proposals are an important step towards a European-wide information and health literacy strategy, for equitable access of all patients to high-quality health information.
Conclusions from the European Expert Conference on Alcohol (MEDUSA)»
European Member State officials, medical experts and civil society came together in Poznan to discuss medical and economic disadvantages of using alcohol. During the two days new research was presented, focusing among other things on alcohols impact on heart disease and the unborn baby.
Consultation process regarding the future of the Food and Health Research in Europe! »
FAHRE, Food and Health Research in Europe, aims to increase the structuring of food and health research and support cooperation towards the European Research Area. After an extensive analysis of the research needs in nine subject areas related to food and health research , FAHRE is now implementing a wide consultation process on the Draft Strategic Proposals – a set of recommendations regarding the future of Food and Health Research in Europe that will contribute to the current discussion about the next Research Framework Programme (Horizon 2020).
Commissioner Dalli delivers speech at the Eucomed MedTech Forum: Driving Innovation in European Healthcare»
John DALLI, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, attended the Eucomed MedTech Forum 2011.
Commissioner Dalli addresses a meeting of the MEP Heart Group on "Learning from the UN Summit on non-communicable"»
John DALLI, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, attended a meeting of the MEP Heart Group at the European Parliament.
Mental Health Europe: In times of crisis, the future is at stake»
Mental Health Europe Press release. The credit crunch also had an unexpected consequence, one that reflects a deep chasm in our society – a sharp rise in mental health problems, largely caused by uncertainty and fear for the future.
National finalists of the EU Health Prize for Journalists 2011»
The national juries across the EU have selected the finalists. Meet them and read their articles in the original language.
European Medicines Agency releases qualification opinion on diagnosis of pre-dementia Alzheimer's for public consultation »
The European Medicines Agency is seeking opinions from the public on a qualification opinion describing a biomarker to help identify patients who can be recruited for clinical trials of treatments for early Alzheimer's disease.
Epigenetic impact on neuropsychiatric disorders»
Neuropsychiatric diseases including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are influenced by epigenetic processes, new research from the United Kingdom shows.
World Arthritis Day (12 October 2011)»
World Arthritis Day is held each year on 12 October and is dedicated to raising awareness of diseases affecting the joints, muscles and skeleton, influencing public policy and ensuring all people with these diseases and their caregivers are aware of the vast support network available to them. In 2011, the day's theme is 'move to improve'.
Prevention and control of infectious diseases among people who inject drugs»
The content of this joint guidance was developed by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) with the support of a technical advisory group composed of policy makers, service providers, civil society representatives and preventative health experts from throughout the EU/EEA.
A decade of regional cooperation on public health in South-eastern Europe. »
It has long been recognized that public health initiatives contribute to the reconciliation and stabilization of conflict affected areas.
Vitamin D plays an essential role in the body's fight against TB»
Researchers examined the mechanisms that govern the immune system's ability to kill or inhibit the growth of pathogens such as M. tuberculosis, the bacteria causing tuberculosis.
Seven ways to reduce infections among people who inject drugs»
In recent years, many European countries have achieved substantial progress in preventing drug-related infections.
Q&A: Information to patients on prescription-only medicines»
Patients are increasingly interested in having access to information on medicines and want to take part in decisions regarding their treatment. At the same time, patients are confronted with a growing volume of information from different sources, finding it difficult to identify reliable non-promotional information about medicines.
New strategy: scientists accelerate blood vessel maturation»
A team of EU-funded scientists has described a new mechanism to enhance the restoration of the blood flow in ischaemic diseases, which constitute some of the leading causes of death worldwide.
Underfunding tuberculosis risks slowing progress »
New data, published in the WHO 2011 global tuberculosis control report, shows the number of people dying from tuberculosis (TB) has fallen to the lowest level in a decade.
Empowering the patient: European Commission wants clearer rules for information on prescription medicines »
Patients are increasingly interested in learning more about the medicines they take and want more of a say in how they are treated. At the same time, patients are confronted with a growing volume of information from various sources and often find it difficult to identify reliable information about medicines.
Surveillance and immunisation are keys to protect Europe against seasonal influenza»
The 2011 seasonal influenza immunisation campaigns have started across Europe. As in previous years ECDC is marking the start of the 2011-12 surveillance season in Week 40 with the publication of regular weekly updates of the main epidemiological and virological developments in the Weekly Influenza Surveillance Overview (WISO).
EU drugs agency to present the latest statistics, trends and analysis»
The EU drugs agency (EMCDDA) will present its annual assessment of Europe’s drugs problem in its Annual report 2011 to be released on 15 November in Lisbon. The report, the agency’s flagship publication, provides the latest data and commentary on the drug situation across the 27 EU Member States.
Self-assessed poor health could be an indicator of dementia risk»
People who rate their health as poor or fair are significantly more likely to develop dementia later in life according to a study published online in Neurology
World Mental Health Day – 10 October »
The time to remind ourselves and others that mental health is an important aspect of general health – a value that should not be underestimated. The workplace can be a particularly important setting to maintain good mental health through both prevention of psychosocial risks and promotion of mental health.
Breakthrough in hypoglycaemia research»
A team of scientists from the United Kingdom and France has identified the cause of a rare, life-threatening form of hypoglycaemia. Writing in the journal Science, the scientists explain how their findings could lead to the development of new pharmaceutical treatments for the condition.
One in four people will require mental health care »
New figures from the WHO Mental Health Atlas 2011 indicate that while the need for mental health care is large, with up to 25% of the population requiring it at some point in their lives, there is underinvestment in the sector.
Ex-smokers are unstoppable" in Kosice, Slovakia, 01-02 October 2011 »
Two days of campaign activities. Watch the pictures.
Health Effects of Artificial Light: Public hearing on preliminary scientific Opinion »
On 10 October 2011, a scientific hearing will take place in Brussels on the preliminary opinion on the Health Effects of Artificial Light.
Health information seeking behaviour on the web»
Eight out of every ten physicians report experience of patients presenting printed internet-sourced health information at visits, which suggests a new dynamic in the traditional doctor–patient relationship.
Join the Council of Europe to celebrate European Day for Organ Donation & Transplantation (EODD)»
The need for organ transplants is increasing worldwide. The ongoing lack of available organs has resulted in an increase in the number of patients on the waiting list.
Connection between healthy ageing and neurodegenerative disorders»
An international team of researchers partially funded by the EU has uncovered new information linking healthy ageing and neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer's disease.
UNAIDS calls for urgent analysis and more research on hormonal contraceptives and HIV infection risk»
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) is following with concern data from recent studies suggesting that women using hormonal contraceptives are at increased risk of acquiring HIV infection from their partners and transmitting HIV to them.
Novel treatments to fight yeast infections just round the corner»
Yeast infections rank fourth on the list of common cause of infection acquired by hospital patients. When healthy people are affected, it is usually associated with vaginal or oral yeast infections, commonly known as thrush.
Global atlas on cardiovascular disease prevention and control»
This atlas on cardiovascular disease prevention and control documents the magnitude of the problem, using global cardiovascular mortality and morbidity data.
Acting Now for Better Health: A 30% Target for EU Climate»
This report sets out new evidence of how higher targets on greenhouse gas emission reductions in the European Union, as part of policy to mitigate climate change, would bring about health gains for Member States and European citizens.
Fewer carbon emissions means better health and greater productivity»
European non-governmental organisations hope to share recent findings on the health and economic benefits of tackling climate change with senior government officials and other top policy makers in Warsaw and Poznan this week.
ECDC editorial emphasise doctors’ decisive role in helping eliminate measles, rubella in EU»
In an editorial in the scientific journal Eurosurveillance, ECDC noted that, based on numerous studies, paediatricians, family practitioners and nurses form the backbone of each national immunisation programme in the EU.
Women’s health in prison»
Women are paying a higher price in prison than men. Women entering prison are often victims of abuse, have problems with the use of illicit drugs and or alcohol, care and provide for children and have mental disorders.
Breast cancer: the advantage of early detection »
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer in women both in developed and developing countries.
The EU invests €30 million to map new territory in health research»
The EU has invested €30 million to understand the epigenome - a link between genes, environment and health.
Study predicts rise in global lower urinary tract problems; Europe to report lowest numbers»
Around 2.3 billion adults worldwide could potentially suffer from at least 1 less urinary tract symptom by 2018, new research suggests.
Health priorities in the Europe 2020 strategy»
The Europe 2020 strategy is the EU's growth strategy for the coming decade. In the field of health, it aims to ensure better health for citizens, including healthy ageing, health at work and tackling health inequalities.
ECDC’s Director sets out vision for strengthening public health microbiology»
At a special joint session combining experts from the National Microbiology Focal Points and ECDC's Advisory Forum, ECDC Director, Dr. Marc Sprenger, set out his vision for the agency’s role in strengthening public health microbiology across Europe.
Interim second report on social determinants of health shows the impact of the economic crisis on health in Europe»
Theinterim report was discussed during the 61st session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. It highlights how the global economic recession has impacted on health and well being in Europe.
New approach to management of back pain»
Back pain is a common health complaint worldwide. In a UK study, Hill and colleagues present a new and promising approach for the management of low back pain in primary care.
EU-funded cardiovascular research keeps on ticking for World Heart Day»
Research into cardiovascular diseases under the 'Health' Theme of the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) has seen around EUR 215 million fund 33 different projects. These projects mainly focus on generating knowledge for improving diagnosis, prevention, treatment and monitoring of diseases of the heart and circulatory system.
Cardiovascular diseases are the number one cause of death globally »
n estimated 17.3 million people died from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) like heart disease and stroke in 2008, representing 30% of all global deaths.
European Commission provides € 5.2 million to help lower income countries in tobacco control»
The European Commission has decided to provide a € 5.2 million contribution to the World Health Organisation's Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) to help middle and low income countries tackle tobacco control effectively.
Statement by John Dalli, Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, on the occasion of World Heart Day»
World Heart Day is a good opportunity to remind ourselves of the major health, societal and economic burden caused by cardio vascular diseases and other chronic diseases. 4 million EU citizens die every year because of a chronic disease.
Research advances understanding of nerve cell death in Alzheimer’s »
Scientists have moved forward in their understanding of how nerve cells are killed during Alzheimer’s disease, according to research published in the Journal of Neuroscience
How protein inhibition delays bone metastases»
Researchers in France have uncovered the mystery of how the onset of bone metastases can be postponed.
Chronic pain gene identified»
Scientists in Spain and the United Kingdom have discovered a gene responsible for regulating chronic pain.
Project management in public health in Europe»
This brochure offers guidance on creating and managing funding proposals under the Health Programme.
Joining together to tackle HIV/AIDS in Europe»
The European Health Programmes 2003–2008 and 2008–2013 have funded more than 60 projects to tackle the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This brochure describes some of the most successful.
Generic public health preparedness in Europe»
This brochure showcases a selection of projects addressing the most infectious and deadly microbes known to man or dealing with the threat of chemical or radio-nuclear exposure.
Multiple genetic discoveries from major international EU-funded lung study»
Scientists have discovered 16 new sections of the genetic code associated with lung function as part of an international study funded by no less than 7 EU-funded projects.
WHO calls for improved city air quality to preserve health »
Air pollution is reaching levels that can threaten people's health in many cities, according to a new compilation of data on air quality released today by WHO.
Medical Tourism: Treatments, Markets and Health System Implications: A scoping review»
International trade in health services, including its most prominent component ‘medical tourism’, has attracted a great deal of policy interest and media attention in recent years.
Healthy nutrition in schools»
Schools offer an opportunity to promote a healthy diet and establish dietary habits to be carried through life and channelled into the wider community.
Delivering affordable cancer care in high-income countries»
The burden of cancer is growing rapidly, and the disease is becoming a major challenge for all developed countries.
Tackling the global clean air challenge»
Air pollution is reaching levels that threaten people's health according to air quality data released today by WHO. The information includes data from nearly 1100 cities across 91 countries, including capital cities and cities with more than 100 000 residents.
Alzheimer's Society website wins top accolade»
Alzheimer's Society’s website has been named as one of the top ten health and medical online sites in 2011.
EU-funded team uncover how immune systems take on tuberculosis»
A team of EU-funded researchers has discovered a new all-natural technique used by our immune systems to stave off infections.
World Alzheimer's Day»
Every year on 21 September Alzheimer associations across the globe unite to recognise World Alzheimer's Day and 2011 will be no exception with events taking place internationally.
European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations 2012: Everyone has a role to play!»
This leaflet raises awareness of Active-Ageing Year and mobilise many different organisations in support of its objectives.
Cigarettes do women more harm than men: study»
Women suffer from more arterial damage caused by cigarette smoking than men do, new EU-funded research shows.
Spotlight on EU-funded projects on World Alzheimer's Day»
Every year on 21 September on World Alzheimer's Day, sufferers of the condition around the world are honoured and recognised in a drive to push Alzheimer's research to the top of policymaker agendas.
White-fleshed fruits and veggies do the body good»
The more fruits and vegetables you eat, especially white-fleshed goodies, the more you protect yourself against stroke, a new Dutch study shows.
Patients’ needs must come first »
The International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations has called for a greater focus on the needs of the patient when implementing commitments to reduce the impact of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
ECDC welcomes decision on new action plan on multi-drug resistant tuberculosis »
The WHO Regional Committee for Europe approved a new action plan to tackle multi-drug resistant and extensively drug resistant tuberculosis (M/XDR-TB) today. This is another milestone in the European efforts to secure strong tuberculosis prevention and control across the region.
European monthly measles monitoring, August 2011»
These European Monthly Measles Monitoring (EMMO) reports are based on information from multiple sources including national websites, the EUVAC.NET database, the Early Warning and Response System (EWRS), validated media reports, and personal communication from national authorities.
New treatments for osteoporosis patients in the pipeline»
Findings from EU-funded research into the mechanisms behind the beneficial effects of exercise on bones could lead to new treatments for osteoporosis sufferers.
Building a Highly Qualified Workforce for Health»
As part of the overall joint action for the EU workforce for health, the EFN together with the Polish Nurses Association, a member of EFN, and the Department of Nurses and Midwives at Polish Ministry of Health, is organising a European debate of nurses and politicians on “Building a Highly Qualified Workforce for Health”.
Global analysis of breast and cervical cancer»
the article provides the first global analysis, with findings that most new cases of breast cancer and cervical cancer occurred in developing countries, and there has been a surprising rise in diagnoses of women of reproductive age.
Researchers identify two-tier system in brain tumours»
Presented in the journal Cancer Cell, the study reveals that based on the anomalies of their genetic material, ependymomas of the cerebellum are classified in two distinct subgroups: group A ependymomas, and group B ependymomas. The former assume negative characteristics while the latter have a positive prognosis.
WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic 2011: warning about the dangers of tobaccos »
This is the third report in a series on the status of global tobacco control policy implementation. It examines in detail the two primary strategies to provide health warnings – labels on tobacco product packaging and anti-tobacco mass media campaigns.
Low-cost solutions for noncommunicable diseases »
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, killing more people every year.
Evidence-based methodologies for public health»
A new ECDC report explores how methods of evidence-based medicine can be applied in the field of infectious diseases.
Ex-smokers are Unstoppable! Commissioner Dalli presents next steps in the campaign»
At a press event on Wednesday 14 September, Commissioner Dalli provided an update on the campaign’s achievements so far, unveiled 2 new video clips and presented an exhibition of stories and photographs of real ex-smokers from the 27 Member States.
53 countries to commit to accelerated action on HIV, as rates triple in 10 years in eastern Europe and central Asia.»
At the sixty-first session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, being held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 12 to 15 September 2011, the WHO Regional Office for Europe will present an action plan to Member States to halt the increasing spread of HIV in the WHO European Region.
ECDC to coordinate EUVAC.NET, the European surveillance network for numerous vaccine-preventable diseases»
For more than ten years, this surveillance network has provided prominent information on the epidemiology of vaccine preventable diseases in 32 European countries.
Computer modelling shows release of carbon into atmosphere»
A new international research study suggests that changes in the Earth's climate will trigger the release of billions of tonnes of carbon trapped in high-latitude permafrost into the Earth's atmosphere by the end of the 21st century.
Five Member States give safeguarding biological information the green light»
An EU-funded pan-European initiative to operate a sustainable infrastructure for managing and safeguarding biological information in Europe has been given the go-ahead by five European countries as well as the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI), part of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in the United Kingdom, the project's coordinating institution.
Up to 27 million people living with undiagnosed dementia worldwide, says report»
Three-quarters of the estimated 36 million people with dementia worldwide do not have a formal diagnosis, according to a major new report published.
WHO maps noncommunicable disease trends in all countries»
This report indicates where each government needs to focus to prevent and treat the four major killers: cancer, heart disease and stroke, lung disease and diabetes.
Ex-smokers are Unstoppable! Commissioner Dalli presents next steps in the»
Mr Dalli, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy presents the next phase in the EU-wide "Ex-smokers are Unstoppable" campaign. The campaign is about empowering people to quit smoking by showing the benefits of life without tobacco.
EU-OSHA to present recent research on women at work at the XIX OSH World Congress on safety and health at work »
The research highlights that major risks factors include the type of work carried out by women, issues faced by younger and older women, the growth of the service sector, violence and harassment, and increasingly diversified working time patterns as major risk factors.
How pregnancy diet affects newborn allergy risk»
Researchers in France have identified a potential link between the food consumed by women during their pregnancies and the risk of their children developing allergies.
Young researchers given funding boost from European Research Council»
Hundreds of early-career researchers across Europe are set to receive increased financial support from the European Research Council (ERC) as it announces its funding programme for the next five years.
Physical activity improves health»
Six percent of all deaths are attributed to physical inactivity making it the fourth largest risk factor for global mortality.
Implementation of the Health Programme in 2009»
This working document of the Commission's services aims at informing the Programme Committee, the European Parliament and the Council, on the implementation of the Health Programme in year 2009 per financial mechanisms and per annual work priorities as decided by the Commission.
Alzheimer's Society urges people to sign up to Dementia Awareness Day’s Facebook page»
Alzheimer's Society is supporting a new dementia awareness event, Dementia Awareness Day (DAD), which is taking place on Saturday 17 September 2011.
Public not aware of simple steps they can take to reduce risk of dementia, according to new research study»
Only one in ten people realise that taking regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce their risk of developing dementia, according to a survey commissioned by Alzheimer’s Society and Bupa.
Concept paper on pharmacovigilance implementing measures released for consultation»
The European Commission is seeking views from the public on a concept paper on implementing measures for the performance of activities related to the safety monitoring of medicines.
Two and a half million deaths each year caused by alcohol»
The harmful use of alcohol is one of the four main risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
New ECDC report explores how methods of evidence-based medicine can be applied in the field of infectious diseases»
The report explores how the best from the methods of classical epidemiology can be matched and possibly merged with the methodologies developed in evidence-based medicine to give a new blend, an evidence-based methodology for infectious diseases prevention and control.
53 European countries tackle killer diseases and public health: what the future holds for health, and how to beat diseases now»
Health ministers and other policy-makers, attending the sixty-first session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe as representatives of the Region’s 53 Member States, will be invited to endorse five innovative action plans on conditions contributing to the burden of disease in the Region, and to discuss a new European regional policy for improving health in all countries, Health 2020.
Protecting the unborn baby from alcohol - EP marks FASD Awareness Day. »
MEPs, together with John Dalli, the European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, discussed different ways to protect unborn babies from the negative effects of alcohol at EU level. Adam Fronczak, the Under Secretary in the Ministry of Health in Poland, opened the meeting: "There is no doubt that drinking alcohol during pregnancy causes health-related harm to unborn babies. It has to be noted that even a small amount of alcohol can have detrimental effects to foetus."
Consultation report highlights support for EU response on ALL cross-border health threats »
The European Commission's Directorate-General for Health and Consumers publishes the results of its stakeholder consultation on the Health Security initiative.
Global study identifies new genetic variants in multiple sclerosis»
An international team of scientists has found new genetic variants that contribute to the development of multiple sclerosis, an immunological disease.
ECHA publishes new guidance on Safety Data Sheets»
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has published new Guidance on the compilation of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs). The document is now available in the Guidance section of the ECHA website.
Stopping violence»
Violence accounts for more than 1.5 million deaths every year. Furthermore, a significant number of women report experiencing physical and/or sexual violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lives.
Touch-screen test could play role in diagnosis of dementia»
The touch screen test - CANTAB - which involves a visual memory test will be trialled by a UK GP Commissioning Board. It will be made available to people aged over 50 who either self-refer to their family doctor, or who are advised to do so by a carer, with suspected Alzheimer's disease.
Organ donations: The gift of life »
Despite the EU Action Plan on organ donation, there are still sharp differences in the levels of donations and successful transplants between member states. Euranet investigates the current system of organ donation and asks what can be done to improve it.
Launched the Task Force on Patient Safety »
Health First Europe together with Task Force Patron MEP Christofer Fjellner (EPP, Sweden), launched the Task Force on Patient Safety to demand more stringent recommendations for Member States with regards to the safety of patients.
SHARE: a major multi-national research databank»
SHARE provides open and free of charge access to data, and aims to help researchers understand the impact of population ageing on European societies and thus to help policy makers make decisions on health, social and economic policy.
EU-funded study discovers new genes for rare inherited diseases»
An international team of EU-funded researchers has identified two new genes connected with hereditary renal diseases.
Low vitamin D levels among European adolescents»
Sub-optimal vitamin D levels are highly prevalent among European adolescents, according to a recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition.
WHO: Tobacco kills up to half of its users»
Tobacco use is one of the most important risk factors contributing to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). Read the fact sheet on tobacco.
More than one in ten of the world’s adult population is obese»
Obesity increases the risk of developing a number of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and some cancers.
Securing quality cancer care: Governments must step up to the plate»
The OECD recently made a cross-country analysis of how cancer care systems work in an attempt to explain variations in cancer survival in Europe.
Industry and academic actors from chemistry world agree on new bioactive molecule standard»
Representatives of pharmaceutical companies, data resource providers and academic groups have come to an agreement on a new standard for describing the effect of a compound on a biological entity, detailed in a new study published in Nature Review Drug Discovery.
ECDC assessment on Avian flu outbreak in Southeast Asia indicates no change in risk to human health»
ECDC concludes in its rapid risk assessment that there is no evidence "of the virus A(H5N1) having become more adapted to humans" and the direct risk to the health of EU/EEA population is very low.
Higher density of blood vessels could point to Alzheimer’s»
A higher density of blood vessels in the brain could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease according to research published in the Public Library of Science ONE online.
Policy guidance on water-related disease surveillance»
This booklet contains guidance on the policy related to water-related disease surveillance developed by the Task Force on Water-related Disease Surveillance established under the Protocol on Water and Health to the 1992 Convention on Protection and Use of Transboundary Waters and International Lakes.
Fewer newborns are dying worldwide »
Newborn deaths decreased from 4.6 million in 1990 to 3.3 million in 2009, shows a new study published in the medical journal PLoS Medicine.
EU health prize for journalists: selection of national finalists begins»
The national juries will meet until the end of September and select the finalists. The names of the finalists will be published in early October. The information on the national juries will be published after each national meeting.
Complementary Medicine (CAM): its current position and its potential for European healthcare»
The document defines CAM, explains its holistic approach and explores its increasing popularity.
Public hearing on the preliminary Opinion on the Health Effects of Artificial Light »
Registration is now open for the Scientific Hearing on the Pre-consultation Opinion on the Health Effects of Artificial Light, taking place in Brussels on 10 October 2011.
Special issue: Conclusions and recommendations from the 3rd European Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion»
This special conference issue of the Alert-magazine presents the conclusions and recommendations from the 3rd European Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion, Budapest- Gödöllő, June 16th and 17th, 2011.
Act against Europe's most common birth defects: one year on»
This new report, launched under the auspices of the Hungarian Presidency of the EU, aims to provide a horizontal overview of the policies that could contribute to increased NTD prevention in the EU and Norway. It calls, once again, for better prevention strategies and an effective maternal health policy.
Reducing health inequalities in the European Union »
This brochure provides updated information on health inequalities between and within the Member States of the European Union. It reviews several health inequality items (especially life expectancy) and explores the role of health determinants with a specific focus on the "Social Gradient", i e the social dimension existing in virtually all factors affecting health status.
New EU-funded project to tackle improving nutrition among those at risk of poverty»
Today in Europe many nutritional foodstuffs remain a luxury commodity and are not affordable for everyone in society. In light of this, a new EU-funded project that hopes to tackle the resulting poverty-related nutritional problems has just got underway.
Public Consultation on 20 potential Substances of Very High Concern»
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has today published proposals to identify 20 chemicals as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) and thus as possible candidates for authorisation. From the last publication six months ago, the number of dossiers has more than doubled.
Unite in the fight against noncommunicable diseases»
Thirty-six million people die each year from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease and stroke, diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease. On 19-20 September 2011, global leaders will gather at the United Nations in New York to turn the tide on NCDs. Watch the video and call on your leaders to attend.
David Servan-Schreiber: A life dedicated to fight cancer»
David was known as a French physician, neuroscientist and author. He was made famous by his commitment to developing integrative approaches to the prevention and treatment of cancer.
New psychological first aid guide to strengthen humanitarian relief»
Psychological first aid covers both social and psychological support and involves the provision of humane, supportive and practical help to people suffering from serious crisis events.
Operational guidance on rapid risk assessment methodology»
This guidance document develops a methodology for rapid risk assessments undertaken in the initial stages of an event or incident of potential public health concern.
Rapidly assessing risks for public health purposes»
ECDC's new technical document on risk assessment methodology offers several risk-ranking algorithms that can be easily applied to a wide range of different public health threats.
Think yourself better»
In oncology, the contribution of the human touch which alternative medical treatments offer, and the placebo effect they induce, can be easy to overlook.
Polio kicked out of Europe»
Europe declared polio-free by the European Regional Certification Commission for Poliomyelitis Eradication (RCC), after reported cases of wild poliovirus type 1 in 2010.
New brochure on EU funding to promote active ageing »
This brochure makes a particular contribution to the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations 2012.
Commission report provides valuable evidence base on men's health»
The Men's Health Report, published by the Commission on 25 August, highlights the state of men's health across Europe.
Quality of life in ethnically diverse neighbourhoods»
This report presents the results of a research programme analysing the quality of life in ethnically diverse neighbourhoods in 15 EU countries based on the 2007 European Quality of Life Survey.
The WHO e-atlas of disaster risk for the European Region. Volume 1. Exposure to natural hazards. Version 2.0»
This e-atlas models the distribution of five natural hazards – seismic activity, floods, landslides, heat-waves and winds – and populations’ exposure to them in 32 countries of the European Region.
Tests underway for new HIV drug farmed from GM tobacco plants»
A clinical trial of a potential Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) drug farmed from genetically modified (GM) tobacco plants has at long last got underway in the United Kingdom.
Scientists find elusive gene responsible for rare congenital disease»
A Franco-British team of researchers has discovered a mysterious gene responsible for the extremely rare congenital Grey Platelet Syndrome that causes a bleeding disease.
Healthy foods for thin wallets – New European project gives people at risk of poverty a CHANCE »
Living on the poverty line* is not only associated with poor economy but will also often bring with it other problems such as nutrition related ill-health.
Elder maltreatment likely to increase with ageing populations »
While there is little information regarding the extent of maltreatment in elderly populations, especially in developing countries, it is estimated that 4-6% of elderly people in high-income countries have experienced some form of maltreatment at home.
Unshackling progress in the care of childhood cancers»
A meeting held in the run up to International Childhood Cancer Day reviewed how well we are doing to help young cancer patients.
New online nutrition initiative can help protect lives and health of millions of children»
WHO is launching a new web-powered initiative that clarifies guidance on life-saving nutrition interventions, and assists governments and healthcare providers to better scale up action against all forms of malnutrition.
Foodborne outbreaks: managing the risks»
The deadly outbreak of Escherichia coli (E. coli) infection in Germany raised fears and questions about food safety in well-regulated countries. In an interview with the WHO Bulletin, Dr Maged Younes, Director of Food Safety at WHO discusses measures to be taken during outbreaks of foodborne illness to manage the risk to the population.
"Fit for Health": a network for participation in EU-funded "HEALTH" research projects.»
"Fit for Health" is a network of experts for the successful participation of research centres, universities and innovative SMEs in EU-funded "HEALTH" research projects.
The European Patients' Forum to coordinate an "Innovative Medicines Initative" project about patients information on pharmaceuticals»
IMI-funded 'European Patients Academy on Therapeutic Innovation' aims to educate patient advocates and lay public about therapeutic innovation.
WHO Europe: New tool to help hospitals prepare for emergencies»
The tool can help hospital administrators and emergency managers to respond effectively to the most likely disaster and crisis scenarios.
Study examines method for early detection of Alzheimer’s disease»
Scientists at The University of Manchester have discovered that measurements of brain activity could be used to predict Alzheimer’s disease in people with mild memory problems.
ECDC releases two new reports on HIV and migrant health»
With the publication of two new reports ECDC further develops its evidence on migrant health.
New tachograph features for enhanced road safety»
In a recent legislation proposal, the European Commission envisaged technological improvements for a mandatory recorder of professional drivers’ activities known as tachograph.
EU food safety authority consults on food and feed from genetically modified animals»
The EU food safety authority wants comments on a draft guidance for assessing the risks of food and feed from GM animals.
The European Agency for Health and Safety at Work: focus on younger worker»
Younger workers are vulnerable, as they often are inexperienced, and ignorant of risks to themselves and others.
Human gene regulation mechanism discovered»
Scientists from Germany, Spain and France say you must transcribe a protein-coding gene into ribonucleic acid (RNA) and in the 'splicing process' shortened to the correct template if you want to produce proteins. In their latest study, presented in the journal Nature, the researchers provide new insight into how the U2AF protein enables this process.
Gene discovery in truffle dogs could help children with epilepsy»
A new epilepsy gene found by an international team of EU-funded researchers in Lagotto Romagnolo dogs, known for their gift for truffle hunting, could be a new candidate gene for human benign childhood epilepsies characterised by seizure remission.
EU funds new research project to respond to unexpected epidemic threats such as E.coli»
The European Commission has decided to allocate an additional €12 million from the EU's Research Framework Programme to reinforce Europe's capacity for tackling pathogens like the virulent Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria that recently infected close to 4,000 people in Europe and killed 46.
Call for proposals for the Innovative Medicines Initiative»
The Innovative Medicines Initiative Joint Undertaking (IMI JU) is a pan-European public private partnership aiming to foster collaboration between relevant stakeholders, from large and small biopharmaceutical and healthcare companies to regulators, academia and patients.
WHO publishes a European report on preventing elder maltreatment»
Elder maltreatment is pervasive throughout the WHO European Region: at least 4 million elderly people are estimated to experience maltreatment in any one year and 2500 of them will die each year.
Genetic risk factors for restless legs syndrome identified»
An international research team has discovered the genetic risk factors for restless legs syndrome (RLS), a disorder that triggers unpleasant sensations in people's legs at night.
European researchers driving road safety»
Europeans are making efforts to ensure our well-being in vehicles. The project partners have developped an inexpensive optical sensor system for the windshields of small and medium-sized cars. This driver-assistance system will help reduce the number of accidents on the roads.
Risk of travel-associated cholera transmission can remain low if precautionary measures are taken »
ECDC has issued a risk assessment on cholera transmission related to travel to the Dominican Republic after two cases have been detected in tourists returning to the UK and Germany from resorts in the Punta Cana area of the Dominican Republic.
Multidrug resistant, extensively drug-resistant and pandrug-resistant bacteria: an international expert proposal for interim standard definitions for acquired resistance»
A group of international experts came together by a joint initiative by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to create a standardised international terminology with which to describe acquired resistance profiles in Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus spp., Enterobacteriaceae (other than Salmonella and Shigella), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter spp., all bacteria often responsible for healthcare-associated infections and prone to multidrug resistance.
Telemedicine: An Essential Technology for Performed Healthcare »
Healthcare reform in dozens of countries, including France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Chile, Canada, Taiwan, China and the United States, is generating dramatically new approaches to care delivery. Although the details and the level of maturity of the efforts differ across countries, the overall trends are universal: they reflect the need to contain costs while improving access and care quality, to overcome a shortage of providers, and to take care of a growing sicker and ageing population.
Peptides for fighting ovarian cancer developed by EU-funded researchers»
A team of German and Italian EU-funded scientists has designed peptides that can target the protein-protein interface of an enzyme that plays a key part in the DNA synthesis crucial for cancer growth.
Study explores the effectiveness of music intervention against agitated behaviour in people with dementia»
A study on 100 elderly people with dementia has found that agitated behaviour can be alleviated by group music intervention.
New WHO guidelines call for more evidence on drug-resistant TB»
The new document 'The WHO guidelines for the programmatic management of drug-resistant tuberculosis: 2011 update' focuses on priority areas for healthcare professionals in the diagnosis, treatment and care of drug-resistant TB. It also calls for more research to guide the management of the condition.
TAKE CARE reaches practical phase - Newsletter published»
The project TAKE CARE ("Strategies towards responsible alcohol consumption for adolescents in Europe") has reached the practical phase. First pilot trainings with adolescents took place in the individual countries.
Good practices for selecting and procuring rapid diagnostic tests for malaria»
This manual, designed as a practical 12-step checklist, provides guidance on the selection and procurement of quality rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for malaria.
Assessing Risk Posed by Chemicals in Mixtures»
Current practice in risk assessment, although changing, is more-or-less grounded in the 1970s, when pollution from industrial smokestacks and waste outlets was seen as the primary source of risk.
Launch of EU-funded 'ecancerHub' website»
A new hub of information for those affected by cancer has just been launched, providing an open-access, integrated approach to providing the whole cancer community with high-quality and trustworthy information.
Health and work: a difficult relationship?»
This issue of Foundation Focus looks at the relationship between work and health, using first findings from Eurofound’s fifth European Working Conditions Survey
International survey highlights great public desire to seek early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s»
Results of an international survey reveal that over 85% of respondents in the five countries surveyed say that if they were exhibiting confusion and memory loss, they would want to see a doctor to determine if the cause of the symptoms was Alzheimer’s disease.
LIFE CYCLE - promotion of healthy mobility behaviour through the life-long use of cycling»
The project LIFE CYCLE aims at combining the goals of health professionals with those of transport experts: to increase people's level of physical activity on the one hand with a higher modal share of sustainable transport on the other hand.
EU Call for proposals for HIV/AIDS Research Projects under the FP7»
A call for proposals for cooperation projects within the health theme (FP-HEALTH-2012-INNOVATION-1) of the FP7 (Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development) was launched by the European Commission. The new call includes activities in the area of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria
2011 Report on the State of the Art of Rare Diseases Activities in Europe - European Union Committe of Experts on Rare Diseases»
This report covers activities up to the end of 2010. The report is composed of 3 parts which are now available via the EUCERD website.
EDQM launches new web page on blood transfusion projects»
The EDQM has launched a new web page highlighting its various projects in the area of blood transfusion. The launch of the web page reflects the growing number of important activities in this field.
World Hepatitis Day 2011»
On the occasion of the World Hepatitis Day 2011, the Correlation Network (European Network Social Inclusion and Health - Project No 20081201 co-financed under the EU Health Programme) launched 12 key messages for a good Hepatitis C policy and practice among people who use drugs. These messages were prepared by practitioners in the field of Hepatitis treatment and care and contain guiding principles, practice examples and references for further reading.
Promote breastfeeding to improve child health and nutrition »
Currently fewer than 40% of infants under six months of age are exclusively breastfed worldwide. World Breastfeeding Week which is being observed from 1-7 August in over 170 countries aims to increase this number.
EU offers fresh funds for healthy life expectancy boost»
Efforts to increase the number of years Europeans live in good health are about to get stronger thanks to a EUR 4.2 million injection of funds made available by the EU to researchers.
EFSA finalises the assessment of ‘general function’ health claims »
Scientists on the European Food Safety Authority’s NDA Panel[1] have reached a major milestone in their work on health claims by publishing evaluations of the last group of ‘general function’ claims, excluding those related to botanical substances.
New way to reverse the effects of memory decline discovered, research says»
A hypertension drug could reverse the effects of memory decline.
Three year programme launched for the development of donation & transplantation activities »
Promoting and improving the organisation of organ donation and transplantation at a European level is a real concern and the subject of much effort by the Council of Europe since 1987. Over the last few years, the Council of Europe has implemented several projects, mainly directed towards the development of effective legislative frameworks and the establishment of national transplant authorities and programmes.
World Hepatitis Day: “Hepatitis affects everyone, everywhere. Know it. Confront it.”»
In the WHO European Region, 14 million people are estimated to live with chronic hepatitis B, and about 9 million to be infected with hepatitis C.
Fighting child poverty needs more recognition in the Europe 2020 Strategy»
This year was the first time EU Member States had to set national targets and report on their achievements under the Europe 2020 strategy. From the perspective of child poverty, the results are quite disappointing.
Travel safely – carry your health card »
Free European Health Insurance Card eases access to medical care in 27 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
Report on Europe 2020's social dimension»
The Social Protection Committee (SPC) has issued a report on the "Social dimension of the Europe 2020 strategy" that examines actions to promote inclusion and reduce poverty, in line with the strategy's headline targets.
New EU-funded project changing the way we eat »
When the human genome sequence was launched in 2000, it introduced the possibility of personalisation in health care. Such personalisation can be applied to nutrition, a key health determinant, to create a diet tailored specifically for an individual, according to their individual physical and genetic make-up. Food4Me is a new, EU (FP7) funded project investigating the potential of this personalised nutrition.
European Medicines Agency publishes new strategy on combating antimicrobial resistance»
The European Medicines Agency has published a new strategy for 2011-2015 aimed at combating the threat of antimicrobial resistance that may arise from the use of antimicrobials (mainly antibiotics) in animals.
World Hepatitis Day»
The first official WHO World Hepatitis Day is marked to increase the awareness and understanding of viral hepatitis and the diseases that it causes.
Tobacco Products : Commission publishes report of a consultation which generated 85 000 responses »
The European Commission's Directorate-General for Health and Consumers publishes the results of the public consultation on the upcoming revision of the Tobacco Products Directive. The public consultation generated an unprecedented 85 000 responses. The vast majority of contributions came from individual citizens, illustrating the great interest in EU tobacco control policy. Other respondents represented industry, non-governmental organisations, governments and public authorities.
Research leading the way in the fight to reduce antipsychotics for people with dementia»
Three groundbreaking, Alzheimer's Society-supported clinical trials are helping in the fight to reduce the unacceptable levels of inappropriate prescriptions of antipsychotics for people with dementia
Innovative network for personalised health care, the EU way »
A new project funded by the EU is continuing this effort by targeting the development of a massive network of computer programs that could revolutionise health care in Europe and beyond.
Surgery as a public health intervention: common misconceptions versus the truth»
A recent World Health Organization (WHO) study found that more than 90% of deaths from injuries occur in low- and middle-income countries.
Study uncovers new Parkinson's gene»
Researchers led by the Medical University of Vienna in Austria have identified a new gene called VPS35 that impacts Parkinson's disease.
WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic, 2011: warning about the dangers of tobacco»
This report is the third in a series of WHO reports on the status of global tobacco control policy implementation.
Guidelines for drinking-water quality, fourth edition»
This fourth edition of the World Health Organization’s Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality builds on over 50 years of guidance by WHO on drinking-water quality, which has formed an authoritative basis for the setting of national regulations and standards for water safety in support of public health.
Blood test to diagnose tuberculosis can be dangerous »
The use of currently available commercial blood (serological) tests to diagnose active tuberculosis (TB) often leads to misdiagnosis, mistreatment and potential harm to public health, says WHO in a policy recommendation
EU Health Prize for Journalists: deadline extended until 31 July 2011 »
The submission deadline is extended until 31 July 2011 (12 pm CET).
Risk of travel-associated cholera transmission can remain low if precautionary measures are taken»
ECDC has issued a risk assessment on cholera transmission related to travel to the Dominican Republic after two cases have been detected in tourists returning to the UK and Germany from resorts in the Punta Cana area of the Dominican Republic.
Hormonal contraceptive use increases women’s risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV»
A two-year, seven-country study has concluded that women using hormonal contraceptives, particularly injectable forms, are at a greater risk both of acquiring HIV themselves and of passing it on to a male sexual partner.
UNFPA Promotes Young People's Voices at Upcoming Global Gathering»
“Every young person needs education, including sexuality education, and access to health services, including reproductive health. Now is the time to invest in young people and open space for their participation to build a better future for all.”
Use nutrition for personalised healthcare, say European scientists»
Can we use nutrition as a basis to personalise healthcare? European researchers believe we can and should. The FOOD4ME ('Personalised nutrition: an integrated analysis of opportunities and challenges') project, launched earlier this year, has set its sights on probing the potential of personalised nutrition.
New EU rules to strengthen toy safety»
There will be no more places for defective and dangerous toys in the EU market. As from 20 July 2011, new EU rules for toys are in force to fulfill the highest safety requirements worldwide.
WHO warns against the use of inaccurate blood tests for active tuberculosis»
The use of currently available commercial blood (serological) tests to diagnose active tuberculosis (TB) often leads to misdiagnosis, mistreatment and potential harm to public health, says WHO in a policy recommendation issued on 20 July 2011.
ENNAH, the European Network on Noise and Health, presents its final project results in Brussels»
This network brought together 33 European research centres to establish future research directions and policy needs for noise and health in Europe.
€7 billion boost for research and innovation will create jobs and growth»
EU research funding is at the top of the political agenda and has now been placed at the centre of a coherent innovation strategy. Grants will promote research to tackle the biggest societal challenges facing Europe and the world.
Around 80% of people with West Nile virus have no symptoms»
West Nile virus can cause a fatal neurological disease in humans, although a large majority of people with the virus have no symptoms. See the updated WHO factsheet on the virus.
International survey highlights great public desire to seek early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s»
Results from Europe and U.S. highlight interest in early diagnosis despite wide fear of and familiarity with the condition.
Passive smoking can damage the DNA of sperm»
A new study has shown that passive smoking can damage the DNA of sperm in mice.
Launch of the 4th edition of WHO Drinking-water Quality Guidelines at Singapore International Water Week»
This 4th edition expands on key concepts like health-based targets and water safety planning; presents new risk assessments on microbial, chemical and radiological hazards, and addresses emerging issues of public concern like pharmaceuticals in drinking-water.
Public consultation on Health Effects of Artificial Light»
Today, the European Commission and the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) launch a public consultation on the preliminary scientific opinion on the Health Effects of Artificial Light. All those interested are invited to provide feedback on the scientific evidence and conclusions proposed by SCENIHR by 30 September 2011.
Public consultation on access to/preservation of digital scientific information»
Scientists, research funding organisations, universities, and other interested parties are invited to send their contributions on how to improve access to scientific information. The consultation will run until 9 September 2011.
The European Commission has launched its pilot European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing»
Stakeholders such as industry, health professionals, patiens, insurers, EU Institutions, national and regional authorities have massively taken part to several working groups to consider new ways of working together across the entire innovation value chain. As result of their work, action lines for the partnership have been identified.
Public consultation opens on the revised guideline on good distribution practice of medicinal products for human use»
The guideline was revised to take into account developments in the storage and distribution of medicinal products in the European Union and to meet new requirements for wholesale distributors and brokers established in the new Directive 2011/62/EU on falsified medicines. Comments and suggestions are invited by 31 December 2011.
Surveillance report on invasive bacterial diseases in Europe for 2008-2009»
This report describes the epidemiology of invasive bacterial diseases due to Haemophilus influenzae and Neisseria meningitidis in the European Union (EU) Member States in 2008 and 2009.
Experimental online tool launched to guide HIV treatment decisions without the need for resistance testing»
The system predicts how patients will respond to different combinations of drugs without the need for expensive tests to read the viral genetic code.
WHO to warn against use of TB blood test»
WHO will release a guidance on widely used blood tests for tuberculosis, warning "against using such tests for the infectious lung disease that affects some 14 million people worldwide" because they can produce incorrect results.
EFSA provides up-to-date information on food-borne viruses»
Food-borne viruses are the second most important cause of food-borne outbreaks in the European Union (EU) after Salmonella. EFSA has today published a review of the latest scientific knowledge on these viruses providing advice on possible measures to control and prevent their spread in the EU.
Addressing the challenges of an ageing population»
The European Commission calls on EU Member States to develop and pursue a common vision on how to coordinate research at EU level in the field of ageing. This was the message of a Recommendation just adopted by the Commission entitled "More years, better lives - the potential and challenges of demographic change".
European Medicines Agency plans public access to information on side effects»
The European Medicines Agency has published its plans for granting public access to the information held in its databases of the potential side effects of human and veterinary medicines.
Commission proposes to cut sulphur dioxide emissions from shipping by 90 %»
Better air quality is on the way, thanks to proposals from the European Commission to lower the sulphur content of shipping fuels.
Environmental burden of disease associated with inadequate housing»
WHO report on methods for quantifying health impacts of selected housing risks in the WHO European Region.
ECDC issues an updated risk assessment on the Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) outbreak in the EU»
The epidemiological picture of the STEC O104:H4 incidence in Europe suggests a transition phase, from the main outbreak events in Germany and France related to the infected seeds used for sprouting, towards a future risk for new clusters or a continued incidence of sporadic cases.
Measles outbreaks continue: be vaccinated before travelling and attending large public events»
Countries in the WHO European Region continue to battle large measles outbreaks, which are spreading also to other WHO regions. As the measles virus is very infectious and droplets can remain in the air for hours, preventing the disease through vaccination is especially important before travel and attendance at large public gatherings.
Travelling with pets: Commission acts to protect Member States from tapeworm »
The Commission adopted a regulation permitting, as of January 1, 2012, a pre-movement treatment for dogs travelling to listed Member States claiming echinococcus-free status.
EMCDDA: Statistical bulletin 2011»
Over 400 tables and graphs providing the most recent statistical data relating to the drugs situation in Europe.
Study finds link between dementia and wide range of health problems»
Improving and maintaining health factors not traditionally associated with dementia, such as denture fit, vision and hearing, may lower a person’s risk for developing dementia according to a new study
The Lancet publishes a collection of HIV/AIDS articles»
To coincide with the 6th International AIDS Society (IAS) conference on HIV pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention taking place in Rome 17-20 July, The Lancet publishes a collection of HIV/AIDS articles. Recent scientific progress and renewed high-level commitments have re-energised the HIV community with new opportunities to change the course of the epidemic.
Who should get pills to prevent HIV?»
AIDS researchers are excited about two new studies that seem to nail down the effectiveness of a daily antiviral pill to protecting heterosexual men and women against HIV.
EFSA provides up-to-date information on food-borne viruses »
Food-borne viruses are the second most important cause of food-borne outbreaks in the European Union (EU) after Salmonella. EFSA has published a review of the latest scientific knowledge on these viruses providing advice on possible measures to control and prevent their spread in the EU.
Myeloma Euronet’s new Annual Report is available now!»
MYELOMA EURONET, a non-profit network organisation of multiple Myeloma patient groups, is a European initiative dedicated to raising the awareness of multiple Myeloma, an increasingly common form of bone marrow cancer.
Green Paper on promoting the tastes of Europe »
Presenting the Green Paper in Brussels today, EU Commissioner for Agriculture & Rural Development Dacian Cioloș stated: "To protect the health of our consumers farmers in Europe face stricter rules on food safety, environmental conditions, and animal welfare than their competitors elsewhere in the world.
Latest research shows how cancer cells react to chemotherapy»
EU-funded researchers have made good progress in understanding how cancer cells can sometimes resist the effects of chemotherapy.
Does the sea pose a risk to our health? New study investigates»
A new study has discovered viruses in almost 40 % of more than 1,400 bathing water samples collected from coastal and inland areas in 9 European countries.
EFSA and ECDC publish first joint report on antimicrobial resistance in zoonotic bacteria affecting humans, animals and food»
The report indicates that resistance to antimicrobials was observed in zoonotic bacteria, such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which may cause infectious diseases transmissible between animals and humans and which can be found in foods.
European Commission to strengthen rules to fight dangerous new synthetic drugs»
Tougher action across the European Union is needed to tackle the growing problem of new synthetic drugs entering the market, according to a report by the European Commission
Survey results: Youth attitudes on drugs»
The European Commission published on 11 July the results of its fourth survey exploring Youth attitudes on drugs. This ‘Flash Eurobarometer’ is based on telephone interviews conducted in May 2011 with over 12 000 randomly selected young people (aged 15–24) in all 27 EU Member States.
Scientists say text messages can help smokers quit»
An international team of researchers led by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in the United Kingdom has discovered that mobile phones can help smokers give up their biggest vice.
Hepatitis C is a global issue »
More than 130 million people are currently living with chronic hepatitis C virus and over 350 000 will die from liver diseases caused by HCV each year.
Conference on rights and needs for older patients - Webstream (13.00h CET today)»
The Conference - organized by the European Patients Forum (EPF) and the Federation of Polish Patients (FPP) - will focus on the current challenges confronting health of older patients and welfare systems. Today (12 July 2011), the plenary sessions of the Conference on the rights and needs of older patients will be video-streamed. And again at 14.00h CET on Wednesday 13 July 2011
Alzheimer Europe newsletter»
Alzheimer Europe newsletter covering activities as well as interesting developments in the dementia field in June 2011.
Researchers tackle cardiac death susceptibility»
An international team of researchers discovered a genetic variation that may be putting people at higher risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). The study is funded in part by an EU Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) grant.
EU-funded scientists develop new approaches to fight Alzheimer's»
Earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is one step closer thanks to a team of EU-funded researchers that has developed novel approaches for measuring biomarkers for diagnostics, and a sophisticated system for integrating the information analytically.
Global launch of the WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic, 2011»
The report will present the latest global and country data on the prevalence of tobacco use and on the impact of the package of demand-reduction measures known by their acronym MPOWER.
Manual for laboratory diagnosis and virological surveillance of influenza»
This manual provides standard methods for the collection, detection, isolation and characterization of viruses.
Toxicity and assessment of chemical mixtures»
The Commission's 3 independent, non-food scientific committees have launched a consultation on the preliminary scientific opinion on the toxicity and assessment of chemical mixtures. The consultation will run until 9 September 2011.
Consumption of the khat plant in Europe: update and policy implications»
Use of this drug is growing in Europe, but the scale and nature of the problem is poorly understood.
EU Health Prize for Journalists: contest ends on 24/07/2011. Hurry up! »
If you write on health issues you have a few more days to participate and might win up to 6000 euros and an invitation to a tailored event in Brussels.
Influenza virus characterisation»
Technical document published by ECDC on over 450 virus specimens collected from January May 2011 and provided by EU and EU-affiliated countries.
Nanomedicine, the Promise»
Diseases such as diabetes, cancer, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s pose a tremendous challenge to modern medicine. Societies are ageing around the world, yet today's elders wish to remain active and healthy for as long as possible.
Parliament endorses 2012 as the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations»
Active ageing can give older people the opportunity to stay in work and share their experience, to continue to play an active role in society and live as healthy, independent and fulfilling lives as possible.
WHO urges more countries to require large, graphic health warnings on tobacco packaging»
Over one billion people in 19 countries are covered by laws requiring large, graphic health warnings on packages of tobacco. Requiring such health warnings is among the six tobacco demand-reduction measures recommended by WHO.
Dementia not taken seriously enough according to poll»
Dementia is the most joked about medical condition according to an Alzheimer's Society commissioned poll.
Europe can make a difference against health inequalities, says ECDC Director at the Informal Meeting of Ministers of Health»
An Informal Meeting of Ministers of Health, one of the major events related to the development of EU policy in the field of health, takes place in Sopot (Poland) on 5-6th July. ECDC Director Marc Sprenger gave a speech presenting evidence of health inequalities in the EU, as well as several options for intervention.
New edition of the Dementia in Europe magazine launched»
The Dementia in Europe magazine is dedicated to covering dementia policy.
New report highlights cooperative nature of EU's future research policy»
An expert group established as part of the Seventh Framework Programme's (FP7) regional calls for 2010 has just published a new report containing several key recommendations for the future of EU research policy.
Publication of the new legislation to fight against falsified medicines »
Following adoption by the Council and the European Parliament, the new legislation on falsified medicines was published on 1 July in the Official Journal of the European Union. The new legislation, which will be applicable on 2 January 2013, is the outcome of the legal proposal that the Commission put forward in December 2008. It introduces tougher rules to improve the protection of public health with new harmonised, pan-European measures to ensure that medicines are safe and that the trade in medicines is rigorously controlled.
Plaques and the fight against heart disease»
Researchers in Europe have discovered that stabilising vulnerable plaques as part of secondary prevention could contribute to eliminating at least 50 % of coronary events.
Rare genetic condition tracked down with potential new biomarker»
An EU-funded team of researchers from Canada, Germany and Poland has made new headway in research into the genetic condition neurofibromatosis (NF1).
Health spending continues to outpace economic growth in most OECD countries »
Health spending reached 9.5% of GDP on average in 2009, the most recent year for which figures are available, up from 8.8% in 2008, according to OECD Health Data 2011.
New first ever world report on disability»
The report gives then evidence of the ways to overcome the barriers that are indentified, especially in health care, rehabilitation, education, employment, and support services. It also makes recommendations to governments.
Alzheimer's Society launches competition to put dementia in the frame»
Alzheimer’s Society is calling on amateur and professional photographers to capture what it is like to live with dementia as the charity launches a competition ahead of Dementia Awareness Week.
Patients need information. Is that clear? »
The urgent quest for novel cancer treatments engages much of our attention, but could we be overlooking other opportunities for increasing patients’ survival and quality of life?
Study shows how brain rhythms impact learning»
The faster you move, the stronger your brain rhythms related to learning become, new research from Germany and the United States shows. Published in the journal Public Library of Science (PLoS) ONE, the findings will help fuel scientists' understanding of how brain functions are instrumental in human learning and navigation.
Commission launches consultation on improving EU air quality policy »
With up to 49% of Europeans living in areas where EU air quality objectives are still not met, air pollution is one of the main environmental worries facing EU citizens.
Cinnamon can delay development of Alzheimer’s, according to study»
An extract found in cinnamon bark, called CEppt, contains properties that can delay the development of Alzheimer's disease, according to a study published in the journal PloS One.
Poor maternal diet 'can lead to malnutrition»
Women who eat badly during pregnancy risk themselves and their babies becoming malnourished, according to one nutritionist.
Abandonment of treatment for childhood cancer»
Almost 80% of children with cancer in resourcerich countries can be cured by timely, intensive multimodality treatment and robust supportive care.1,2 However, only 20% of the world’s children with cancer live in these countries;3 the remaining 80% reside in resource-poor nations and have a substantially lower chance of survival.
ECDC and EFSA issue joint rapid risk assessment on the E.coli outbreak»
In their joint assessment, the two European agencies provide a chronology of events and outline that currently fenugreek sprouts are the most likely connection between the French cases and the previous outbreak in Germany.
Four blood pressure changes in a lifetime»
Researchers recognise that it is possible to regulate the primary causes of increases in blood pressure, helping prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke.
Polish Presidency priorities for health»
On 1 July 2011, Poland will assume the European Council Presidency of the EU with the aim of fostering faster economic growth in the EU and strengthening the European political community.
"It's never too late" for pregnant women to quit smoking"»
Pregnant women can reap the benefits of giving up smoking whatever stage they are in their gestation, an expert has advised.
Route Map gives new priority to dementia research»
Route Map provides the opportunity of a generation to not only transform the face of dementia research but also to transform the lives of hundreds of thousands of people with dementia.
European Medicines Agency listens to stakeholder expectations for pharmacovigilance reforms»
The European Medicines Agency has hosted a second workshop on the changes to the safety-monitoring of medicines in Europe, where it heard the expectations from patients, consumer groups, healthcare professionals and the pharmaceutical industry.
Holidaying in the EU? Think 112»
No matter where you spend your summer holiday - the beach, mountains or city - if you are holidaying in Europe, remember the 112 European emergency number.
ECHA releases a web portal for REACH and CLP inspectors»
The new web portal, developed as a separate application from REACH-IT, allows REACH and CLP inspectors to search for key information indicated by companies in their dossiers such as whether a dossier was submitted, by whom and when, the tonnage band, production and use sites, intended uses, information on classification and labelling, and guidance on safe use.
The top 10 causes of death»
Measuring how many people die each year and why they have died is an important way to assess the effectiveness of a country’s health system.
Critical review: Health and environmental effects of fluoride»
The Commission's independent Scientific Committee on Health and Environmental Risks (SCHER) has published its critical review of the hazard profile, health effects, and human exposure to fluoride and fluoridating agents in drinking water.
ECDC update on outbreak in Germany and cluster in France»
ECDC is continuously monitoring the enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC) and Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC) oubreak in Germany and other EU Member States. The Agency publishes a daily update which include the most recent numbers on haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) and non-HUS cases reported by EU Member States.
Interim first report on social determinants of health and the health divide in the WHO European Region »
Although health has improved for many people, there are major inequalities in health - within and between countries - across the WHO European Region.
Health in a changing climate»
No vaccine is currently available and the main preventive measures are aimed at reducing exposure to mosquito bites.
Study sheds new light on link between fat cell transformation and obesity»
European researchers led by the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland say the adaptation of fat cell membranes to obesity could contribute to early stage development of inflammatory diseases.
Statement by Vice President Viviane Reding ahead of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking»
Drug addiction is a scourge on our societies. Drug abuse destroys young people’s lives. Drugs are dangerous and illegal. Young people must be warned about the dangers of taking drugs.
Sexual health throughout life»
Sexuality and sexual experiences are part of everyone’s life, and involve different needs and implications at different stages.
Drug use in Europe still a major threat to public health»
Message from Wolfgang Götz, EMCDDA Director ahead of International day against drug abuse and illicit trafficking (26 June)
WHO report - Environmental burden of disease associated with inadequate housing»
This summary report presents key findings of the report “Environmental burden of disease associated with inadequate housing”. It provides evidence that the health consequences of inadequate housing are substantial.
Scientists find link between master gene and neurodegenerative disorders»
An international team of scientists, funded in part by a European Research Council (ERC) grant under the EU's Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), has discovered a master gene that controls both the lysosomes that break up the debris as well as the cellular compartments that encapsulate the material and fuse with lysosomes to completely dispose of the debris.
Europeans put healthy food in research spotlight»
Experts believe that healthy food innovation can be driven by science, R&D innovation, individual health awareness and individual risk-benefit analysis.
Overcoming cancer with research»
This brochure highlights the breakthroughs in the fight against childhood cancer.
Inequity in cancer care: a global perspective»
This publication focuses on the issue of inequality in cancer care, focusing on access to prevention, screening, palliative and treatment services.
Scaling-up HIV services for men who have sex with men and transgender people »
New public health approaches aim to reduce the spread of HIV and save lives of men who have sex with men and transgender people
Shortage of midwives endangers women's and newborns' lives»
The first State of the World's Midwifery report released today confirms the critical role midwives play in improving maternal and newborn health and survival.
Omega-3 and blood-thinning drugs impact clotting process»
Researchers in Poland have discovered that combining omega-3 fatty acids with two blood-thinning drugs, aspirin and clopidogrel, changed the process of blood clotting, potentially helping reduce the risk of heart attacks in patients with stents in their heart arteries.
ECDC report on Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease in the EU and Norway»
The report provides a review of national documents aimed at controlling the transmission of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease transmission in medical settings.
Scientists find genes to beat MRSA defence system»
Efforts to develop better and stronger treatments against diseases continue in Europe, with particular emphasis being placed on fighting human pathogens and strains resistant to existing treatments.
Atlas of headache disorders and resources in the world 2011»
The Atlas of headache disorders presents the findings of the first global enquiry into headache disorders and health-care resource allocation. It provides a comprehensive compilation of information gathered from 101 countries.
WHO-based research programme wins 2011 Gates Award for global health»
TDR – the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases that is based at WHO and co-sponsored by UNICEF, UNDP, the World Bank and WHO – has been given the 2011 Gates Award for Global Health.
More skilled midwives needed to save women's and newborns' lives»
New report calls for strengthening of midwifery services to achieve health Millennium Development Goals 4, 5 and 6 on child survival, maternal health and HIV/AIDS
Voluntary donation of tissues and cells»
A Commission report shows that nearly all EU countries have provisions in place for citizens to donate tissues and cells without being paid for it.
Q&A: “Ex-smokers are Unstoppable” campaign »
Questions and answers about the new campaign of the European Commission to help people stop smoking
ECDC stresses importance of getting vaccinated before attending mass gathering events»
These large gatherings presents a unique situation where the spread of infectious diseases can be facilitated due to the huge number of people, originating from different countries and congregating in space and time.
Eurosurveillance report reveals characteristics of the German outbreak strain of E.coli and diagnostic screening tools»
Eurosurveillance published new information on the characteristics of the German outbreak strain of E.coli and how these microbiological findings have been shared in real time by public health microbiology experts to disseminate best laboratory practice for case detection and public health investigations across Europe and beyond.
Implant could have benefits for long term memory problems»
Scientists have created an electrical device that can record and play back signals in the brain of rats associated with memory according to a study published in the Journal of Neural Engineering.
The secret behind a successful clinical trial»
Efforts to develop better and stronger treatments against diseases continue in Europe, with particular emphasis being placed on fighting human pathogens and strains resistant to existing treatments.
EU-funded project gives boost to vaccine innovation»
The development of new effective vaccines is a constant requirement in the global battle against life-threatening diseases.
New version of WHO Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) launched»
The WHO Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) is an important new calculation tool, available free online that is being used by a steadily increasing number of physicians around the world to calculate a patient’s 10-year probability of fracture based on scientifically validated risk factors.
Travel safely – carry your health card»
Free European Health Insurance Card eases access to medical care in 27 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Always travel with it.
European report on preventing elder maltreatment»
This report highlights the biological, social, cultural, economic and environmental factors that influence the risk of being a victim or perpetrator of elder maltreatment, as well as the protective factors that can help prevent it.
New WHO/Europe report: an estimated 10 000 old people physically abused every day»
Every year at least 4 million older people in the WHO European Region are estimated to suffer physical abuse: being slapped, punched, kicked, burned, wounded with a knife or locked in their rooms.
Bathing water quality remains high around the EU »
The quality of bathing water across Europe declined slightly between 2009 and 2010, but the overall quality was still high. More than nine out of 10 bathing water sites now meet the minimum requirements.
Fight against tobacco: European Commission launches a pan-European campaign »
"Ex-smokers are unstoppable" is the slogan of the EU-wide campaign launched today by European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, John Dalli.
Blood donation saves lives, needs more promotion»
Voluntary blood donation is on the rise in the EU, but young Europeans are giving less than the older generation. According to MEPs who regularly donate blood this is the ultimate expression of generosity and solidarity and it should be promoted. On 15 June the Environment Committee discussed the latest European Commission report on blood donation.
New EU tobacco awareness campaign "Ex-smokers are unstoppable"»
The Commission launches the new campaign: "Ex-smokers are unstoppable". Its aim is to encourage young adults in the 25 to 34 age group to stop smoking. The new campaign will shift the focus from the dangers of smoking to the advantages of quitting smoking, using ex-smokers and their achievements as inspiring role models.
How gene conversion can beat malaria in future»
An international research team has shed new light on how the human genome puts up a good fight against malaria parasites.
EMCDDA: General report of activities 2010»
The General report of activities is an annual publication providing a detailed progress report of the EMCDDA’s activities over a 12-month period.
New EU Directive to prevent sharp injuries in the hospital and healthcare sector »
Member States shall bring into force the laws, regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this Directive or shall ensure that the social partners have introduced the necessary measures by agreement by 11 May 2013 at the latest.
Safety & health at work is everyone’s concern»
Getting hurt at work or becoming ill through work is not a pleasant subject to think about. But the reality is that every three-and-half minutes, somebody in the European Union dies from workrelated causes.
Detecting myeloma: Increased doctor awareness could shorten unnecessary and painful patient odyssey»
Patients suffering from multiple myeloma, a bone marrow cancer affecting more than 80,000 people in Europe, have to wait more than six months on average before their disease is detected, about one in four has to see at least four doctors, and more than one in three has to be treated for pain before myeloma diagnosis.
Video: EU fights fake medicines»
See the video on the dangers of fake medicines and EU measures taken to guarantee the highest possible level of citizens' health.
New world report shows more than 1 billion people with disabilities face substantial barriers in their daily lives»
Governments should step up efforts to enable access to mainstream services and to invest in specialized programmes to unlock the vast potential of people with disabilities
Blood donations save lives»
This year on World Blood Donor Day, people are encouraged to give blood to save lives.
Commission proposes to revamp rules to protect EU workers from harmful electromagnetic fields »
A proposal to update and improve EU rules to protect workers from electromagnetic fields in their daily tasks has just been put forward by the European Commission. The rules are to protect workers like doctors and nurses giving patients magnetic resonance imaging scans (MRI), people working with radar, welders and workers reparing power lines. The proposal would replace the current Directive (2004/40/EC).
Alzheimer Europe Newsletter»
The Alzheimer Europe newsletter covering activities as well as interesting developments in the dementia field in May 2011
ECDC and EFSA publish joint technical report on the STEC/VTEC outbreak in Germany»
ECDC and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a joint technical report that provides a summary of report Shiga toxin/verotoxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC/VTEC) prevalence and incidence in humans, food and animals.
High-impact alpha-particles therapy sends metastases in remission»
The research offers a hope for patients suffering from neuro-endocrine cancer who do not respond well to standard therapies, such as surgery, chemotherapy and certain types of radiotherapy.
EU and US joining forces on global health and aid effectiveness»
The EU and the US, the world's two largest aid donors will intensify their cooperation on global health, climate change, food security and aid effectiveness.
European Commission announces an extra €10 million to provide life-saving vaccines»
New funding to help immunize millions of people against preventable diseases will be pledged on Monday, 13 June, by EU Development Commissioner, Andris Piebalgs.
How frog skin could hold the secret to cancer treatment»
Proteins found in frog skins could soon be an instrumental part of treatment for over 70 serious conditions including cancer and diabetes, according to new research from scientists at Queen's University Belfast in the United Kingdom.
Unlocking the vast potential of people with disabilities»
The first-ever World report on disability provides the first global estimates of persons with disabilities and an overview of the status of disability in the world. It shows that almost one-fifth of of persons living with disabilities, or between 110-190 million, encounter significant difficulties.
World Drug Report 2010»
The report opens with an analytical discussion of 3 key transnational drug markets: heroin, cocaine and amphetamine-type stimulants.
A call to action on the use of antipsychotic drugs for people with dementia»
The Dementia Action Alliance has launched a call to action on the use of antipsychotic drugs for people with dementia.
EFSA issues advice to mitigate risks from possible exposure to STEC in vegetables »
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published its fast track risk assessment on consumer exposure to STEC/VTEC (Shiga toxin or verotoxin producing E.coli) through the consumption of raw vegetables and provided advice on options to mitigate the risks of possible food contamination and human infection.
It's never too late to learn»
Qualified nurses seeking extra support in learning how to deal with people who are very distressed and disturbed can breathe a sigh of relief.
Cleaning up masterpieces with ... bacteria?»
For most people the word bacteria will conjure up either images of nasty microorganisms that we fight against daily by cleaning the spaces around us, or the type of 'good' bacteria doctors advise us to consume to keep our digestive system's ticking over.
FAQ: What is Escherichia coli and what does the term EHEC mean?»
Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common bacterium that is part of the bacterial flora normally found in the intestines of humans and animals, and are usually harmless. However, there are particular strains of E. coli that are capable of producing toxins.
More efforts required to reduce ozone pollution in Europe»
Ground-level ozone is one of the most harmful air pollutants in Europe today. A new report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) shows that despite efforts to reduce ozone pollution, in 2010 levels continued to exceed the long-term objective established in EU legislation to protect human health. EU Member States will also face difficulties in meeting the target value, applicable as of 2010.
Publications available on health and environment »
Documents produced for the Directorate General for Health and Consumers as part of the EU Health Programme
Increasing number of people receiving HIV treatment»
The latest figures show a 16-fold increase in the number of people receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) between 2003 and 2010.
Global burden of disease in young people aged 10-24 years: a systematic analysis»
Young people aged 10—24 years represent 27% of the world's population. Although important health problems and risk factors for disease in later life emerge in these years, the contribution to the global burden of disease is unknown.
Excellence in prevention and control of infectious diseases – read the new corporate brochure»
New corporate brochure targeted the European public, describing ECDC’s activities and goals.
Safe Maintenance has new ambassadors from leading European companies and organisations »
In the second year of EU-OSHA’s Healthy Workplaces Campaign on safe maintenance, the number of official campaign partners has now risen to 52 as seven more pan-European organisations and multinational companies from a range of public and private sectors have joined.
Noise triggers post-op patient infections»
Noisy operating theatres have a negative effect on patients following surgery, new research from Switzerland shows.
Preventing E Coli infection – advice for the public in all EU languages »
Public health advice on prevention of diarrhoeal illness with special focus on Shiga toxin - producing Escherichia coli (STEC), also called verotoxin - producing E. coli (VTEC) or enterohaemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC).
Sophisticated technology sheds light on protein misfolding process»
Protein folding is necessary for the function of three-dimensional structures in the body. However, some parts of functional proteins can remain unfolded, leading to the generation of various debilitating conditions like neurodegenerative diseases.
Bisphenol A: EU ban on baby bottles to enter into force tomorrow »
Baby bottles containing the substance Bisphenol A (BPA) have to be removed from the shelves in stores across the European Union tomorrow, as a ban on the placing on the market and import into the EU of such products enters into force.
EFSA launches a public call for scientific data on aspartame »
EFSA is undertaking a re-evaluation of the artificial sweetener aspartame (E 951) based on all available scientific and technical data. EFSA can draw on a well-established network to ensure that all the relevant data are considered. The deadline of the call is 30 September 2011.
Binge drinking and its adverse impact on memory»
Does alcohol consumption affect our ability to learn verbal information? New research has found a connection between binge drinking and poorer verbal declarative memory — a form of long—term memory.
Guide to ship sanitation»
This guide has become the official global reference on health requirements for ship construction and operation. Its purpose is to standardize the sanitary measures taken on ships, to safeguard the health of travellers and workers and to prevent the spread of infection from one country to another.
Statement by John Dalli, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, on the occasion of World No Tobacco Day »
John Dalli expresses his continued commitment to tackle tobacco consumption and its harmful effects in the EU and around the world. In the coming weeks a new EU-wide awareness campaign targeted to smokers in the 25-34 year age range will be launched.
Measuring burden of disease - the concept of QALYs and DALYs»
Public health interventions aim to reduce the burden of disease and increase the quality of life of populations. But which are the most pressing health problems?
E. coli outbreak in Germany on decline as test results on suspect cucumbers come out »
The European Commission has been informed that the results of tests on cucumbers made by the Hamburg (Germany) authority responsible for Food Safety did not confirm the presence of the STEC serotype O104, which is responsible for the outbreak, despite the fact that the sampled cucumbers tested positive for STEC.
EFSA monitors E.Coli outbreak »
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is closely monitoring the recent outbreak of E.coli in Germany.
Radiofrequency electromagnetic fields may cause cancer »
The WHO/International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans, based on an increased risk for glioma, a malignant type of brain cancer, associated with wireless phone use.
New maps give Europeans close-up picture of air pollution from diffuse sources »
New online maps published today by the European Commission and the European Environment Agency, in close cooperation with the Institute for Environment and Sustainability (IES) of the Joint Research Centre, allow citizens to pinpoint the main diffuse sources of air pollution, such as transport and aviation.
Who publication - Palliative care for older people: better practices»
This publication provides examples of better palliative care practices, from or relevant to the WHO European Region, that range from a whole health system perspective down to individual examples of better education or support in the community and elsewhere.
EU-OSHA launches second pan-European photo competition on safe and healthy workplaces »
The competition calls for entries on the theme of ‘safety and health in the workplace’, with a special focus on risk prevention, to show how employers and employees can work together to prevent occupational accidents and illnesses.
World No Tobacco Day 2011 celebrates WHO Framework Convention On Tobacco Control»
On World No Tobacco Day (31 May), WHO celebrates the successes of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) in the fight against the epidemic of tobacco use.
EU adopts ambitious measures to fight against falsified medicines»
The law introduces new harmonised, pan-European safety and control measures.
Q&A: The Fight Against Tobacco in the EU»
What is the impact that tobacco has on EU citizens' health? It is estimated that approximately 650 000 EU citizens die prematurely every year because of tobacco consumption.
Chlamydia on the rise in Europe: new ECDC report on sexually transmitted infections»
This first ECDC STI surveillance report covers data and trends on the five STI that are being observed in the 30 countries of the European Union and European Economic Area (EU/EEA): syphilis, congenital syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV). , chlamydia is the most frequently reported sexually transmitted infection (STI) across Europe.
New maps give Europeans close-up picture of air pollution from diffuse sources»
New online maps published today by the European Commission and the European Environment Agency, in close cooperation with the Institute for Environment and Sustainability (IES) of the Joint Research Centre, allow citizens to pinpoint the main diffuse sources of air pollution.
Scientists find genetic link to subjective alcohol effects»
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden have found that people who have a close relative who is an alcoholic react more positively to alcohol than other people.
World report on child injury prevention»
The Sixty-fourth World Health Assembly has adopted a resolution on child injury prevention, the first ever on the topic. The resolution, spurred by the WHO/UNICEF World report on child injury prevention, provides a platform to support action on preventing child injuries, which are the leading cause of death for children over the age of 5 years.
Road safety saves lives and money »
WHO presents a new health economic assessment tool for transport on the launch in Europe of the Decade of Action for Road Safety
EUROBAROMETER - Consumer understanding of labels and the safe use of chemicals»
This study assesses people’s awareness, perceptions, and use of chemical products across Europe.
Historical agreements at the Sixty-fourth World Health Assembly »
In her closing address Director-General Dr Margaret Chan praised delegates for consensus on issues that profoundly affect public health.
European Commission allocates EUR 6 million to clinical trials for Alzheimer’s disease»
Within the context of the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), the European Commission has awarded EUR 6 million to an international research consortium known as NILVAD. The aim of the consortium is to develop a new Alzheimer’s disease treatment.
Social determinants approaches to public health: from concept to practice»
The social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age, including the health system. This publication describes thirteen case studies about implementing public health programmes that address social determinants and their impact on health equity.
New WHO/Europe database on nutrition, obesity and physical activity»
The database will help decision-makers and professionals address the spiralling levels of non-communicable disease.
A sustainable HIV response: New global health sector strategy to help chart the way forward »
The World Health Assembly today adopted a new comprehensive Global Health Sector Strategy for HIV/AIDS 2011-2015, spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO).
BIOTRACER model tackles Salmonella»
Salmonella infections, for example, are not uncommon in cases of food—borne gastroenteritis in people. Eggs, fresh produce and meat may be involved in triggering such infections.
New fast-working microscope to tackle melanoma»
A team of German researchers has developed a new type of microscope that could help us better understand skin conditions like melanoma.
Latest news from the World Health Assembly »
The Assembly will take up a wide range of issues, including a review on the latest research on smallpox and whether the remaining virus stocks should be destroyed.
The 32th edition of the "20km of Brussels" (29 May 2011)»
This event is sponsored by Directorate General for Health and Consumers in the framework of the EU platform for diet, physical activity and health
Spending for seniors in OECD countries to at least double by 2050»
Governments need to make their long-term care policies more affordable and provide better support for family careers and professionals, according to a new OECD report.
A new study further validates the use of humanized BLT mice in the fight to block HIV transmission. »
The more than 2.7 million new HIV infections recorded per year leave little doubt that the HIV/AIDS epidemic continues to spread globally. That's why there's the need for safe, inexpensive and effective drugs to successfully block HIV transmission.
Innovative device offers earlier breast-cancer detection»
A team of EU-funded researchers has developed a new type of mammogram technique using molecular imaging which could help detect breast cancer earlier.
Accountability Commission for health of women and children»
Under the heading Keeping Promises, Measuring Results, the United Nations Commission on Information and Accountability for Women’s and Children’s Health presented its findings during the 64th World Health Assembly (WHA) on Thursday.
EU-OSHA launches third edition of Healthy Workplaces Film Award»
For the third consecutive year, the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) is putting the spotlight on safe and healthy working conditions with its Healthy Workplaces Film Awar
Scientists find intestinal bacteria divided into enterotypes»
An international team of scientists has discovered that the human's intestinal bacteria can be split into three main groups known as enterotypes.
New research highlights hormone's role in stroke recovery»
European researchers have discovered that having high levels of a hormone that is associated with the growth hormone system can significantly benefit recovery after a stroke.
Scientists find connection between DNA region and depression»
Scientists from King's College London in the United Kingdom have found a 'glitch' in human deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that may increase people's chances of suffering from depression.
Key Achievements 2010: A publication of the Public Health and Risk Assessment Directorate»
This publication was created thanks to the contributions of every Unit and presents the main achievements of Public Health and Risk Assessment Directorate in 2010.
“Sport for all” policies encourage physical activity»
Mapping and assessing the effectiveness of policies on sport and physical activity across the WHO European Region are important parts of WHO/Europe’s work to promote physical activity.
Groundbreaking study: early antiretroviral use prevents transmission of HIV »
A study of serodiscordant couples (where one partner is HIV-positive and the other is not) has revealed that early and consistent use of antiretroviral medicines by the infected partner can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to the uninfected partner by up to 96%.
Counterfeit medicines pose increasing risk to patients worldwide»
Counterfeit medications are posing an increasing threat to patients' health worldwide, because they offer high returns and low risks for criminal organizations.
Headaches common but neglected »
In the WHO European Region, 80% of adults (aged 18–65) have suffered from tension-type headache, and 15% have experienced migraine over the previous year, according to the “Atlas of headache disorders and resources in the world 2011” by WHO and Lifting the Burden.
EFSA publishes first practical guidance for assessing nano applications in food & feed »
The guidance is the work of the Authority’s Scientific Committee and is the first of its kind to give practical guidance for addressing potential risks arising from applications of nanoscience and nanotechnologies in the food and feed chain.
Scientists find link between cell migration and cancer metastasis»
A two-man research team at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in the United States has discovered how cells migrate in the developing brain and how other types of cells may travel inside the body.
'Virtual' patient-support groups: use with caution»
How we seek advice when faced with difficult and troubling problems has changed thanks to the Internet. New research from a team of German scientists has investigated these new patterns of communication by analysing how patients with prostate cancer interacted online.
Fighting antibiotic resistance in livestock and pets»
Resistance to antibiotics in livestock and pets has become a huge issue in recent years. To cope with this growing problem and the consequent treatment failures, Parliament issued a call on Thursday for more research and better monitoring of the effects of antimicrobials on food-producing animals and pets.
Keeping European consumers safe – RAPEX 2010 annual report»
In 2010, a record 2244 unsafe products were banned, withdrawn from the market or recalled thanks to the EU's rapid alert system for non-food dangerous products (RAPEX).
Kroes and Dalli welcome Council Presidency eHealth Declaration on delivering better health care»
A Hungarian Presidency Declaration urging Member States to deploy eHealth services to the benefit of patients, healthcare workers and national healthcare systems has been welcomed by European Commission Vice-President for the Digital Agenda Neelie Kroes and Health Commissioner John Dalli.
International Nurses’ Day – “Closing the Gap: Increasing Access & Equity”»
On this very important day, celebrating the nurses' contribution to the society, the European Federation of Nurses' Associations (EFN) would like to take this opportunity to stress the importance of nurses in the access for all citizens to high quality and safe healthcare.
New drugs becoming available at ‘unprecedented pace’, says report»
New psychoactive substances are becoming widely available at an ‘unprecedented pace’. In 2010, a record number of new drugs were officially reported to the EMCDDA and Europol via the EU early-warning system on new psychoactive substances.
EU-OSHA teams up with the UN’s Decade of Action on Road Safety 2011-20»
EU-OSHA has launched a new website with information to help keep drivers safe.
50plusnet - A free site giving seniors the opportunity to expand their social network (NL)»
On 50plusnet, seniors can meet peers with whom they can mail and chat, and then take part into clubs or activities. The site was created at the initiative of the Dutch National Institute for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (NIGZ).
Scientists piece together stress puzzle»
EU—funded researchers have linked a previously unknown pathway in the brain to our response to stress, fuelling our understanding of the role 'brain chemistry' plays in how we react to highly stressful and traumatic events.
EU Task Force to advise how to promote eHealth to help patients and healthcare systems in Europe»
An EU eHealth Task Force to assess the role of information and communications technologies (ICT) in health and social care and to suggest ways for ICT to speed up innovation in healthcare to the benefit of patients, carers and the healthcare sector has met for the first time on 10th May, on the margins of eHealth week.
Commission steps up the fight against drugs»
At the G8 ministerial meeting in Paris today, the Commission called for strengthened cooperation in the fight against drugs and presented new initiatives to combat this modern plague.
Vitamin D in pregnancy may protect infants from respiratory problems»
Babies who are deficient in vitamin D at birth are six times more likely to develop disease as a result of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during their first year of life compared with babies who have very high levels of vitamin D.
World unites to halt death and injury on roads»
On 11 May, dozens of countries around the world kick off the first global Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020.
Phone application could help monitor the spread of flu»
Researchers in the UK have developed a mobile phone application which could help monitor the way flu spreads during an epidemic.
Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases Research Calls»
The Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases (GACD) has launched its first call for research proposals. It is for implementation research for hypertension- specifically for low and middle income countries and for underserved populations in high income countries.
New media and technologies pave the way for the future of HIV prevention»
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS and Stellenbosch University have brought together technology leaders, AIDS activists, social media experts and young people to discuss how social media and mobile technologies can be leveraged for HIV prevention.
Stockholm Convention approves recommendation for ban on Endosulfan»
Endosulfan is an organochlorine insecticide used in crops worldwide. It is mainly used on cotton, coffee and tea. Endosulfan can act as an endocrine disruptor, causing reproductive and developmental damage in both animals and humans.
A third of deaths in patients with HIV are attributable to other serious illness present at time of HIV diagnosis»
“Further studies aiming to identify biological as well as sociocultural risk factors for comorbidity are required to increase our understanding of the complex interaction between HIV and diseases acquired before HIV.”
Asthma pill as effective as inhalers»
New research has suggested that a pill to treat asthma is as effective as inhalers in managing asthma symptoms, and is much easier to use.
ECDC releases new web pages on the Surveillance of Healthcare-associated Infections»
On the occasion of World Hand Hygiene Day, 5th May, ECDC is releasing new web pages dedicated to the Healthcare-associated Infections Surveillance Network (HAI-Net). HAI-Net is a European network for HAI surveillance, coordinated by ECDC.
Clean care is safer care»
Proper hand hygiene is one of the most simple and effective ways to reduce health care-associated infections. For the third consecutive year, WHO is raising global awareness about hand hygiene in patient care to reduce the known burden of these infections.
Celebrating the Essential Work of Midwives»
Today, on the International Day of the Midwife, UNFPA joins with the International Confederation of Midwives and other partners to recognize the vital role midwives play in the global challenge to ensure that no woman dies giving life.
Alcohol blamed for cancers»
A fresh analysis of cancer rates in Australia suggests alcohol is to blame for many more cases than previously thought.
New prize for Europe's top scientific papers on drugs»
Europe’s top scientific papers on drug-related topics will be acknowledged this year in a new award launched by the EU drugs agency (EMCDDA).
New research works towards early diagnosis of Parkinson's disease»
An international team of researchers has moved forward the development of diagnostic biomarkers for degenerative disorders such as Parkinson's.
Tuberculosis surveillance in Europe 2009»
The joint ECDC/WHO tuberculosis (TB) surveillance report presents and analyses data collected for 2009 in the European Union, European Economic Area and the additional 24 countries of the WHO European Region.
Balancing fiscal consolidation and Europe's social objectives»
Speech from László Andor, EU Commissioner responsible for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, Debate at Maison de l'Europe Paris, May 3, 2011
Online calculator for melanoma risk»
Melbourne doctors have created a skin cancer calculator for people to work out their risk of getting a melanoma in the next five years.
Breast cancer gene discovery 'like finding gold'»
Breast cancer researchers have found three more genes linked to the most common form of breast cancer, which they have alikened to "finding gold".
Monitoring of products originating from Japan for the possibility of radioactivity»
The European Medicines Agency is working with its European and international regulatory partners to monitor and evaluate the possible risk of radioactive contamination of medicines manufactured in Japan following the radiation leak from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.
New media and technologies pave the way for the future of HIV prevention»
The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and Stellenbosch University have brought together technology leaders, AIDS activists, social media experts and young people to discuss how social media and mobile technologies can be leveraged for HIV prevention.
Release of SIN List 2.0: combatting substances of very high concern under REACH»
Launch of a concrete tool for action on highly problematic endocrine disrupting chemicals. These 22 substances, many of them commonly found in toys, food packaging, and cosmetics, have been incorporated into the SIN List 2.0.
Scientists show disparity in stroke death rate in Europe and Central Asia»
The findings reveal that the rate of stroke death has been dropping in Western European nations since the late 1990s but has been rising in Central Asia and Eastern Europe including Kazakhstan, Poland and Russia.
Teenage dinnertime tipple 'leads to alcohol problems'»
Middle-class parents who let their children have the odd glass of wine or bottle of beer at home when they are in their early teens are doing them more harm than good, a study finds today.
Crisis, hospitals and healthcare»
This comparative report details impacts of the financial crisis on hospital and healthcare services, healthcare professionals, patients and citizens.
Baby's new heart valve»
The thousands of babies born with congenital heart defects could soon be treated with heart valves that grow with them into adulthood.
Scientists’ Appeal on children’s environment and health»
The 2011 congress focused on children’s health and environment sought to bring home the message to both policy-makers and the public about the urgency to act now.
Help World AIDS Day building a great campaign this year. Take part in their survey!»
World AIDS Day seeks individual and organisational input for its 2011 media campaign
Focus on risk prevention! EU-OSHA launches second pan-European photo competition on safe and healthy workplaces»
The competition calls for entries on the theme of ‘safety and health in the workplace’, with a special focus on risk prevention. All photographers – professional or amateur – are invited to submit their entries before 31 August 2011.
EU celebrates the third European Day on Solidarity between Generations»
To celebrate the 3rd European Day on Solidarity between Generations, the European Commission is holding a high level conference 'Towards the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations (2012)'.
Stamping out H5N1 avian influenza could take decades»
Eliminating the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus from poultry in the six countries where it remains endemic will take ten or more years, according to a new FAO report.
New food labels: As easy as pie»
No small print! Food labels should be simpler, clearer and provide information not only on ingredients, but also about possible dangers to health from components like trans fats or allergens, according to a report on food information for consumers backed by the Environment Committee 19 April.
Countries questioning laws that criminalize HIV transmission and exposure»
To assist countries in the just application of criminal law in the context of HIV, UNAIDS has initiated a project to further investigate current scientific, medical, legal and human rights aspects of the criminalization of HIV transmission.
EU-OSHA announces 10th European Good Practice Awards on World Day for Safety and Health at Work»
The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) recognised and rewarded the outstanding contribution to safe maintenance made by eight organisations and companies from across Europe.
Cancer breath test 'step closer'»
A breath test that can sniff-out cancer is a step closer to reality, according to a preliminary study.
New criteria and guidelines for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease published»
Three expert international workgroups convened by the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging (NIA) have issued the first new criteria and guidelines to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease in 27 years.
Commission brings science closer to society through new website»
The European Commission has announced the launch of a new website for the MASIS ('Monitoring policy and research activities on Science in Society in Europe') project, which has been established as one of the strategic activities under the Science in Society (SiS) umbrella of the 2008 Capacities Work Programme.
Deaths from noncommunicable diseases on the rise, with developing world hit hardest»
Noncommunicable diseases are the leading killer today and are on the increase, the first WHO Global status report on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) launched confirms.
Health First Europe (HFE) launches its new website. »
The new website provides comprehensive information on previous and current HFE activities, our vast array of MEP Supporters and our member organisations in order to better communicate the work undertaken by Health First Europe.
EU-funded breakthrough in malaria treatment in the run up to World Malaria Day»
Ahead of World Malaria Day (25 April), EU-funded researchers have discovered that drugs originally designed to inhibit the growth of cancer cells can also kill the parasite that causes malaria.
World Malaria Day: Urgent call for research to meet drug resistance challenge »
Malaria kills up to two million people per year, infecting 300 to 500 million more. The only infectious diseases that kill more people are tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
Paola Testori Coggi, Director General of DG Health and Consumers, explains the Herbals Directive»
On 30 April 2011, the period granted for herbal medicines to be registered will expire. This deadline brings to an end a seven year period allowed by a Directive adopted in 2004. The Director General of the European Commission for Health and Consumers explains the situation in order to address certain concerns expressed by citizens in the European Union.
ECDC marks 'European Immunization Week'»
In support of "European Immunization Week" on 23-30 April, ECDC together with European countries and WHO Europe will participate in the sixth European Immunization Week.
A call to action on NCDs - Lancet article»
A call to action for governments to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes was announced in The Lancet.
Scientists find connection between obesity and breast cancer»
A common 'mantra' we hear daily is 'Watch your weight, watch what you eat'. Doing so helps lower our risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and premature death. But we may have another reason for it as well.
Three new calls for tenders published»
The Executive Agency for Health and Consumers has published today three calls for tenders in the area of public health. The calls concern the following topics: - HIV and co-infections prevention strategies, - the organisation of training sessions for inspectors in the field of blood and blood components, - the set-up of guidelines in support of ePrescription interoperability.
5th European Patients' Rights Day (18 April 2011)»
Putting Citizens at the center of Health Policy begins with guaranteeing patients rights are respected. The reinforcement of Patients' rights will become effective only with the cooperation and commitment of all healthcare stakeholders in every EU country.
Cross-border health care in the European Union. Mapping and analysing practices and policies»
Cross-border health care is a growing phenomenon in the European Union. When in need of medical treatment, patients increasingly act as informed consumers who claim the right to choose their own providers, including those beyond borders.
Agreement improves global preparedness for influenza pandemics »
A working group coordinated by WHO reached agreement on a framework to ensure that in a pandemic, influenza virus samples will be shared with partners who need the information to take steps to protect public health.
How do you search for health-related information on the Internet?»
The questionnaire was developed by the Health On the Net Foundation, an independent Non-Governmental Organisation dedicated to improving the quality and accessibility of online health information, in collaboration with the Society of physicians in Vienna in the framework of the European Project KHRESMOI
Molecular switch affects panic disorder»
Panic disorder sufferers will tell you the attacks are some of the most sudden, frightening and uncomfortable experiences ever. But what makes some people susceptible to these attacks and others not? Studies of twins point to hereditary factors playing a key role in 40% of cases
How anti-depressants work: new discoveries could improve depression treatment»
EU-funded researchers from the Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London in the UK, have discovered for the first time in a human model how anti-depressants make new brain cells, meaning that researchers can now develop better and more efficient drugs to combat depression
Occupational health and safety in the transport sector — an overview»
This report reviews the OHS risks of a wide variety of transport occupations, analysing statistics and studies, and presenting case studies of prevention.
Call for expressions of interest for experts»
The new 2011 Call for expressions of interest for experts is now published in the supplement to the Official Journal. The call remains open maximum for the duration of the EU Health Programme (until the end of 2013).
Changes in the brain could be detected decade before Alzheimer's symptoms are seen»
Brain shrinkage could act as an indicator of Alzheimer’s disease around 10 years before symptoms begin to be seen according to a study published in Neurology.
Global Strategy for Women's and Children's health»
The “Global Strategy for Women’s and Children’s Health” sets out how we can work together to save women and children. The document was developed under the auspices of the United Nations Secretary-General with support and facilitation by The Partnership for Maternal, Newborn & Child Health.
Over 7 200 babies are stillborn every day »
Some 2.6 million stillbirths occurred worldwide in 2009, according to the first comprehensive set of estimates published in a special series of The Lancet. Every day more than 7200 babies are stillborn — a death just when parents expect to welcome a new life — and 98% of them occur in low- and middle-income countries.
Health statistics: Eurostat compact guide»
Health is an important priority for Europeans, who expect to be protected against illness and disease at home, in the workplace and when travelling.
OSH Management System: A tool for continual improvement»
The report discusses the application of an Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OSHMS) for the effective management of hazards and risks in the workplace. It has been prepared to serve as background to the 2011 World Day for Safety and Health at Work campaign.
Burden of disease from environmental noise. Quantification of healthy life years lost in Europe»
This publication summarises the evidence on the relationship between environmental noise and health problems, including cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbance, tinnitus, and annoyance.
Doctors talk openly about their medical errors in ‘When Healthcare Hurts’»
In the book, some well-established Dutch physicians talk about their medical errors, where they are not proud of, but that forms an inherent part of their professionalism. They talk openly about how they faced the consequences of theircontribute to a culture where it is normal to talk constructively with each other about the darker side of healthcare, about the vulnerability and fallibility of providers.
Researchers piece together molecule breakdown puzzle»
In a new study, EU—funded researchers have unlocked the mystery behind the breakdown of molecules in the body.
Alcohol causing cancer in Europe»
In Europe, 1 in 10 cancers in men and 1 in 33 cancers in women occurs as a result of alcohol consumption, according to new EU funded research published in the British Medical Journal.
New WHO child growth standards catch on»
Since 2006, when the World Health Organization launched the new Child Growth Standards, over 140 countries have adopted them.
EFSA completes evaluation of further 442 ‘general function’ health claims »
EFSA’s NDA Panel has published the outcome of the evaluations of a fourth series of ‘general function’ health claims proposed for use on food products.
Europeans making medical treatment priority for kids»
Health practitioners and parents want the best for children, and helping drive this objective is the PRIOMEDCHILD ('Coordination of research on priority medicines for children') initiative, a Coordinated Action funded under the ERA-NET scheme of the EU's Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).
Tackling antibiotic resistance from a food safety perspective in Europe»
This publication explores the options for prevention and containment of antibiotic resistance in the food-chain through national coordination and international cooperation
EFSA issues advice on reduction of Campylobacter in chickens»
EFSA’s BIOHAZ Panel has published a scientific opinion assessing the public health impact of control measures which could be used to reduce the occurrence of Campylobacter in chickens and chicken meat. The experts also evaluated how it may lead to a fall in the number of human cases of campylobacteriosis associated with the consumption of chicken meat
ECDC marks World Health Day 2011 with situation update on antimicrobial resistance in Europe»
Antimicrobial resistance was the focus of World Health Day 2011, 7 April. On this occasion, ECDC Director Marc Sprenger presented the ‘Situation update on antibiotic resistance’ to the European Parliament in Strasbourg.
Health professional mobility on the European agenda»
Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, stressed yesterday in Budapest the relevance of the WHO Global Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel for the European Union (EU) and wider WHO European Region.
EU-funded research projects discover new antibiotics against resistant bacterial infections »
This year's World Health Day focuses on the growing threat of potentially deadly infections developing resistance to antimicrobial drugs – especially to antibiotics. On this occasion, the European Commission is presenting the promising results of two EU-funded international research projects which provide new hopes to help and treat people.
World Health Day: fight against antimicrobial resistance must continue on a global scale»
This year's World Health Day focuses on the growing threat of potentially deadly bacteria developing resistance to antimicrobial drugs - especially to antibiotics. The Commission joins the World Health Organisation in calling for strengthened efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance, which is a global health hazard.
5th edition of the European Health Award»
The award highlights and rewards an initiative in more than one European country that contributes to meeting some of Europe's health challenges and reducing disparities in the provision of health services across Europe.
ECDC presents public health challenges at EU Informal Meeting of Health Ministers»
The EU faces public health challenges, such as extending vaccination to currently under-immunised populations and controlling the spread of resistant bacteria. With national public health budgets under pressure, it is even more important to collaborate at EU level to achieve more with the same resources
No health risks to people living outside of Japan from damaged nuclear plants, WHO says»
There are no health risks so far to people living in other countries from radioactive material released into the atmosphere from the Japanese nuclear power plants
EU Cooperation to reduce the health worker migration»
Health worker migration is threatening the health services, therefore, Member States have to find a common solution, EU health ministers declared at their two-day informal meeting in Gödöllő on 4-5 April
Towards a European road safety area»
Opinion of the European Economic and Social Committee on the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions: Towards a European road safety area: policy orientations on road safety 2011-2020
Report: Differences in costs of and access to pharmaceutical products in the EU»
This report reviews the differences in the prices of pharmaceuticals among Member States
Hungarian Presidency of the EU: Upgrading the healthcare systems»
It is essential for the healthcare systems to be upgraded; and healthcare professionals should have better working conditions, stressed Minister of State for Healthcare, of the Ministry of National Resources, Miklós Szócska, in an interview to eu2011.hu prior to the informal ministerial meeting which began on 4 April.
EuroHealthNet’s new Website is launched»
Today, EuroHealthNet launches its new Website highlighting health promotion work carried out by the membership and network of EuroHealthNet, with the aim of improving the health of European citizens by striving for greater health equity between and within countries
Research develops new test to diagnose TB»
A new test, which could quickly diagnose individuals with active tuberculosis (TB) from those with the latent TB infection, has been developed by researchers in Italy
Older workers have been highly exposed to physical risks (FR)»
Survey on employment and professional career
Public consultation on Medicated Feed»
DG Health & Consumers is launching a stakeholder consultation "Smart Regulation of Medicated Feed - how to safeguard public and animal health while increasing the competitiveness of EU's livestock sector" from 31 March - 30 May 2011
Stress prevention approach for home care services (FR)»
CIDES has published a guide on the prevention of psychosocial risks in home care
EU population older and more diverse – new demography report says»
The third Demography Report published in cooperation with Eurostat reveals Europeans are living longer and healthier lives
Recommendations on labelling and packaging for non-prescription medicines released for consultation»
The European Medicines Agency has released recommendations on pack design and labelling for centrally authorised non-prescription human medicinal products for a three-month public consultation period
Epidemiological update on measles in EU/EEA»
ECDC epidemiological update on measles in EU/EEA with a particular focus on France, facing increased continuous indigenous circulation of measles across the country since the end of 2008.
Diet change can reduce BPA levels in humans»
A new study shows that avoiding canned and packaged food can reduce chemical levels in the human body by 50% or more
New evidence from WHO on health effects of traffic-related noise in Europe»
Traffic-related noise accounts for over 1 million healthy years of life lost annually to ill health, disability or early death in the western countries in the WHO European Region
Publication of a Core Competencies Framework for Health Promotion Handbook»
This publication is part of a European project around Developing competencies and professional standards for health promotion capacity building in Europe (CompHP).
EU Health Prize for Journalists 2011 has been launched»
The EU Health Prize for Journalists 2011 has been launched and will be open for submission of articles until 24/07/2011. This year there will be a special prize on "smoking cessation" next to the prizes for the top three articles on the other topics.
2nd report on voluntary, unpaid donation of blood and blood components»
An overview of voluntary and unpaid donation of blood and blood components in the EU, focusing on legislative provisions and policies, as well as collection and supply issues.
Cross-border health care in the European Union. Mapping and analysing practices and policies»
Cross-border health care is a growing phenomenon in the European Union. This WHO publication looks at the legal framework of it and examines the legal uncertainties surrounding rights, access, reimbursement, quality and safety.
Information on drinking water safety released »
In response to concerns about the safety of drinking water in Japan, WHO says that drinking tap water poses no immediate health risk, but local conditions will differ and may fluctuate.
Countries contribute to action plan for noncommunicable diseases»
Health professionals are accustomed to working with the sick. But to reduce the main killers in the European Region, noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, the health sector needs to change the behaviour of those who are still well.
WHO and the European Commission meet to agree future common action in key areas»
The meeting will focus on innovation and research in health, health security, public health information systems, health systems and investing in health, health inequalities and cooperation in countries.
WHO prioritises environmental and occupational cancer risks »
"Decreasing, and eventually eliminating the exposure to environmental and occupational carcinogens is the most effective way to prevent a number of cancers," according to the World Health Organization in a press release following a meeting in Asturias, Spain, 17-18 March 2011.
New publication on European Research on Environment and Health»
After the first three calls for proposals, over seventy multidisciplinary pan-European research projects dealing with environment and health issues have been funded by the European Commission’s Research and Innovation Directorate-General in the Seventh Framework for Research (2007-2013).
Food and water safety remains a concern to the public »
As the public continues to enquire about the health risks from radioactive contamination in Japan, WHO is working with international scientific and technical partners to evaluate data and provide advice about food and water safety.
Partners call for increased commitment to tackle multidrug-resistant tuberculosis »
It is time for countries with rapidly growing economies and a heavy burden of MDR-TB to step up their commitment and financing.
Study highlights obesity levels in children»
Published online in the journal Obesity Reviews, the study was part of a European project, the World Health Organisation (WHO) European Childhood Obesity Surveillance Initiative (COSI), that involved 17 European countries.
Pharmaceuticals: the EU Register of Clinical Trials is launched Online »
All EU citizens will have access to information on the thousands of authorised pharmaceutical clinical trials that are underway in the EU. The aim of this official public register is to make clinical research on pharmaceuticals more transparent for patients and others and to avoid unnecessary duplication of clinical trials.
Salmonellosis : EU measures helped reduce human cases almost by half in 5 years, report confirms»
Human salmonellosis cases were reduced almost by half over a five-year period, from 196,000 cases in 2004 to 108,000 cases in 2009, thanks to measures introduced by the European Union, a report confirms.
Reports highlight global state of TB epidemic, concerns over drug-resistant TB»
Increasing rates of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis are hampering world health programs aimed at tackling TB and threaten to wipe out progress made against the disease.
New method developed for delivering drugs to the brain, says study»
Researchers found that for the first time, using this 'natural' system they were able to transfer potential new drugs across the normally impermeable blood-brain barrier and into the brain.
Top 30 medicines to save mothers and children»
WHO's first ever list of priority medicines for maternal and child health recommends to countries which medicines are most important for saving lives.
Eliminating childhood Tuberculosis »
In collaboration with the WHO's Childhood TB Subgroup, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has hosted a conference on childhood TB to examine challenges and develop a concerted advocacy approach.
Progress towards eliminating TB»
This report looks at current tuberculosis control in Europe, putting it into the global context, and presenting a framework to monitor progress towards eliminating TB.
Global Plan to Stop Tuberculosis 2011-15»
The Global Plan to Stop TB is a comprehensive assessment of the actions and resources needed to implement the Stop TB strategy and reduce the global TB burden.
Consultation on health security in the EU – deadline for comments: 29 April 2011»
Stakeholders' views are being sought on what actions the Commission should take to protect EU citizens more effectively against cross-border health threats.
Mental health in economic crises»
Following the economic crisis that began in 2007, the WHO European Region has experienced changes – a rise in unemployment, an increasing number of people living in poverty, and cuts in public spending – that are detrimental to mental health.
Study raises hopes for aortic stenosis sufferers»
A molecule that causes inflammation plays a key role in the development of a heart valve disease called aortic stenosis, new research shows. The findings, published in the journal Circulation, suggest that anti-inflammatory medicines could be used to slow the progress of the condition.
Europeans target better web access for people with disabilities»
For people around the world the Internet has become the first port of call for most information. However, researchers in Hungary believe that much of the information posted on the web does not meet the demands of users with disabilities.
The European Union's response to the earthquake and the nuclear plant situation in Japan»
Since the devastating earthquake which struck Japan on Friday 11 March, the European Union is fully mobilised to translate its solidarity in concrete support.
"Active and Healthy Ageing" pilot programme – preparatory work»
The first Europe 2020 ‘Innovation Union’ pilot partnership aims to add two years to the average European's number of healthy life years.
EU creates tsunami early warning system»
EU-funded researchers have helped develop an early warning system to protect vulnerable communities from tsunamis.
Cardiovascular disease and BMI (Body Mass Index)»
Data from 220,000 people was analysed to produce estimates of associations of BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio with first-onset cardiovascular disease outcomes.
Scientists uncover gene behind kidney disease risk»
The discovery could lead to new ways of treating kidney disease and slowing its progression.
Vaccination programmes essential to successful infectious disease control»
The success of vaccination programmes has resulted in a significant decline of many infectious diseases across Europe over the years. But this achievement is directly linked to a high vaccination coverage.
EFSA reviews safety of caramel colours »
The European Food Safety Authority’s scientific Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) has assessed the safety of a group of caramel colours[1] authorised for use in food in the European Union.
Alzheimer's Society website shortlisted for best website in prestigious science communications awards »
Alzheimer’s Society website has been nominated for an award at the prestigious Association of Medical Research Charities’ (AMRC) Science Communication Awards 2011.
The impact of health and health behaviours on educational outcomes in high-income countries: a review of the evidence»
Education is known to have an effect on health. But to what extent do good health and healthy behaviours contribute to educational attainment?
EMHF to respond to 'ground-breaking' men's health report»
The EMHF is to respond to the first European Commission report on men's health in Europe with a series of expert round-table seminars.
International Women's Day shifts perceptions of heart disease»
The European Society of Cardiology (ESC) presented on International Women's Day (8 March) research showing that despite being more at risk from cardiovascular disease (CVD) than men, women remain significantly underrepresented in clinical trials for the disease.
Epidemic Intelligence eTutorial: a tool to learn more about the detection and assessment of public health threats »
ECDC promotes the implementation of Epidemic Intelligence (EI) activities at EU and national level. EI can be defined as the process to detect, verify, analyse, assess and investigate public health events that may represent a threat to public health.
Guidelines for testing HIV, viral hepatitis and other infections in injecting drug users »
The EMCDDA agency published the guidelines that are accompanied by a recommended package of prevention and primary care in relation to injecting drug users and infections.
A new total of 23 unique projects to boost drug innovation»
The Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI), currently the largest public-private partnership in the biopharmaceutical sector, launches its second wave of research projects which address key areas including cancer, immune-mediated diseases, infectious disorders and electronic health.
Study uncovers 13 new heart disease risk genes»
An international team of scientists has identified 13 genes that raise the risk of a person developing coronary artery disease (CAD).
International Women's Day celebrates 100 years »
Over the last 100 years many advances have significantly improved the health of women but there is still more to be done.
New Health-EU video on rare disease»
As up to 30 million Europeans suffer from a rare disease, diagnosis is the key to ending inequalities.
Feam statement on Mental Health Policy Issues»
The present report draws on discussion from a Prague meeting organised in 2009 by FEAM (Federation of European Academies of Medicine) to review some of the critical issues in contemporary psychiatry and is intended to provide advice to decision-makers at the EU and national levels in developing a more coherent policy for mental health.
Immunization in Europe “at crossroads”»
Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, stated that on immunization issues, Europe “stands at a crossroads”. Despite the challenges, Ms Jakab remains confident that the European Region will achieve its goals of remaining polio free and eliminating measles and rubella, as well as reducing mortality from other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Research quantifies increased life and wealth from cleaner air»
EU-supported research findings by the Aphekom project show that significant health and monetary benefits could result from further reducing current levels of air pollution in European cities.
After final approval from the Council, the Directive on cross-border healthcare is now adopted »
The Council of the European Union approved the European Parliament's amendments on a draft directive aimed at facilitating access to safe and high-quality cross-border healthcare and promoting cooperation on healthcare between member states.
Hungarian Presidency of the Council on the adoption of the cross-border healthcare directive »
At its meeting on 28 February, the Council adopted a healthcare directive for both intra-European and “cross-border” applications, meaning the legislation designed to strengthen patients’ rights substantially, will shortly come into force.
New publication issued by International Medical Products Anti-Counterfeiting Taskforce (IMPACT)»
The handbook describes the first five years of activity of the International Medical Products Anti-Counterfeiting Taskforce (IMPACT), chaired at the moment by the Italian Medicines Agency.
Rural poverty and health systems in the WHO European Region»
Globally, poverty tends to have a rural face. In disadvantaged rural areas, the drivers of poverty are also the drivers of ill health.
EU Health programme: 2011 Work plan and calls published»
The 2011 work plan for the European Union's Health Programme was adopted on 22 February 2011. The work plan presents the funding priorities under the Health Programme for 2011.
EFSA explains use of its new food consumption database »
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published an overview of its first Comprehensive Food Consumption Database, a new source of information on food consumption in the European Union, containing detailed data for a number of EU countries.
Over half a million people will have undiagnosed dementia in 2021 »
In 2021, over half a million people will be living with dementia that has gone undiagnosed.
European Charter for Health Equity - open for signatures!»
You can add your signature to the European Charter for Health Equity until 31 March 2011.
Keeping harmful medicines off the market »
Protecting people from poor-quality, unsafe medicines is a public health priority.
New Health-EU video on fake medicines»
The video explains what is being done to stop the sale of fake medicines.
Scientists develop innovative technology to fight cancer»
EU-funded researchers continue the good fight against cancer. A Dutch team has succeeded in boosting chemotherapy dosage to tumours with the possibility of easing harmful side effects by combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound.
Eurobarometer on European awareness of rare diseases»
The report examines Europeans’ awareness and knowledge of rare diseases and their support for policy initiatives actions taken at national and European level.
New Health-EU video on falsified drugs»
This video explains the European Parliament vote on new legislation concerning falsified medicines.
WHO launches Global status report on alcohol and health»
The WHO launched the Global status report on alcohol and health (2011) during the first meeting of the WHO global counterparts for implementation of the global strategy to reduce the harmful use of alcohol.
Facing the New Challenges of an Ageing World»
Speaking at an event co-organized by UNFPA, the Government of Finland and HelpAge International, experts on ageing and senior citizens themselves called for greater effort by governments and the international community to urgently address the needs of the elderly
European Medicines Agency launches strategy on medicines for older people»
The European Medicines Agency will ensure that the needs of the ageing population in the European Union are taken into account in the development and evaluation of new medicines, according to its geriatric medicines strategy
Understanding rheumatoid arthritis»
Scientists at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden have taken a step closer to understanding rheumatoid arthritis after discovering a new mechanism behind the disease.
Tackling drug resistance»
Antimicrobial resistance is not a new problem but one that is becoming more dangerous. Many countries are taking action, but urgent and consolidated efforts are needed to avoid regressing to the pre-antibiotic era. World Health Day 2011 will highlight the importance of countries taking action today to protect the medicines of tomorrow.
Improving access to generic medicines »
WHO's Director General, Dr Margaret Chan, explained that health officials seeking to procure lower-cost generic products need help in navigating the complex, sometimes murky landscape of patent information.
New publication highlights recommendations for rapid uptake of e-Health»
Rapid action is needed to increase patient access to e Health technologies by setting targets for EU countries on reimbursement and access to innovative technologies.
Study finds genes not environment behind Parkinson's »
An EU-wide study has found five new genetic variants for Parkinson's disease.
Q&A – directive on falsified medicines »
Most frequently asked questions on falsified medicines
Fake medicines: Parliament approves new rules to protect patients better»
A new law to prevent fake medicines from entering the legal supply chain was approved by Parliament today.Internet sales will be covered by the law, which also introduces new safety and traceability measures, as well as sanctions against counterfeiters.
New Health-EU video on crossborder healthcare »
The video on the new law on crossborder healthcare outlines who can seek treatment and who foots the bill.
New-generation vaccine to save lives »
An innovative vaccine will protect children against pneumococcal disease, which causes life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.
First WHO report on neglected tropical diseases»
This report presents evidence that activities undertaken to prevent and control neglected tropical diseases are producing results.
Veggie-eating fish does the body good»
Can feeding vegetables to fish ensure food quality and safety? EU-funded researchers say it can.
Action to reduce impact of harmful alcohol use»
The newly published global status report on alcohol and health analyses evidence on alcohol consumption and provides data for 100 individual country profiles.
Commission calls on Member States to increase awareness of Europe's single emergency number"112" »
To mark "European 112 Day" on 11th February, the European Commission is urging Member States to step up their efforts to increase public awareness of the existence of 112, the number which can be used in all EU Member States to reach emergency services.
New Health-EU videos on rare diseases»
Videos on Health-EU describe different situations related to rare diseases. You can also share a video or photo of your own or that of others living with a rare disease.
Scientists find link between stroke risk and road traffic noise»
People are at greater risk of stroke when they are exposed to increased road traffic noise, new research shows.
Childhood cancer research needs urgent boost, study shows»
Funding for childhood cancer research is too low and too dependent on short-term grants to maintain the improvements in survival rates seen in recent decades.
New shoes for elderly people »
European researchers have developed a new shoe aimed at helping elderly people walk more safely as part of the European research project SMILING.
Race against time to develop new antibiotics »
Infectious agents are becoming increasingly resistant to medicines and not enough new drugs are being developed to combat such resistance.
New web site on Public Health Research »
The new web site includes ‘Optimising the delivery of health care to European citizens’ with its three sub-areas as clinical research into practice, health systems research and health promotion and disease prevention.
EFSA to issue statement on two studies on safety of artificial sweeteners»
EFSA will issue a scientific statement on two recent studies on the safety of artificial sweeteners by the end of February 2011, responding to a request for technical assistance from the European Commission.
Cancer linked with poor nutrition»
A large body of literature indicates that as much as 30% of all cancer cases is linked to poor dietary habits, and is therefore preventable.
Researchers reveal how sick proteins move between cells in Parkinson's sufferers »
An EU-funded study has revealed that the sick proteins that are a key element of Parkinson's disease slowly move between cells, eventually triggering the destruction of the new host cell.
EU project to improve follow-up care after childhood cancer »
Childhood cancer survivors, though being 'cured' of cancer, often experience late physical and psychological effects secondary to their cancer or its treatment.
New physical activity guidance can help reduce risk of breast, colon cancers »
Just 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week can reduce the risk of breast and colon cancers. This is according to the new Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health released by WHO today on World Cancer Day.
Sign up to stop cervical cancer in Europe»
This petition has been set up by the European Cervical Cancer Association with the support of the International Union Against Cancer, the Association of European Cancer Leagues and the European Cancer Organisation.
Commissioner Dalli delivers speech at "Better Health, Better Economy"»
John DALLI, European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy, addresses high-level representatives of the Finnish government
European guidelines for quality assurance in colorectal cancer screening and diagnosis »
At the occasion of the World Cancer Day, the European Commission publishes the first edition of the European Guidelines for Quality Assurance in Colorectal Cancer Screening and Diagnosis.
Health and environmental groups ask Commission to revise air quality laws on health grounds»
HEAL and other environmental groups have called on the European Commission to immediately revise the National Emission Ceilings (NEC) Directive.
Low control for high cholesterol »
A study of 147 million people shows that most people with high cholesterol levels are not getting the treatment to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease such as heart attack and stroke.
European Parliament adopts resolution on initiative to combat Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia»
The resolution calls on European governments to make Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia a policy priority and raise public awareness about them.
2010 in review, highlights in 2011 »
In 2010 the WHO European Region faced several public health emergencies, and passed notable health milestones. Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, has drawn up an ambitious roadmap to improve health across the Region.
Renewed hope for the EU’s environment and health action plan»
A push for renewing the action plan came on the 20th December, when EU environment ministers called on the EU Commission to further promote health through environment policy and draw up a second EHAP as soon as possible.
Eat your fruits and veggies, protect your heart »
The benefits of eating fruit and vegetables have been underlined once again as UK researchers say they can protect people from the most common form of heart disease — and one of the leading causes of death — in the EU.
Conclusions on the Drugs Situation in Europe 2010»
The Council invites the Commission to launch an independent assessment of the implementation of the EU Drugs Strategy 2005- 2012 and the EU Drugs Action Plan 2009-2012.
Accountability Commission for health of women and children»
A Commission on Information and Accountability for Women’s and Children’s Health will propose a framework for global reporting, oversight and accountability on women's and children’s health.
Q&A: Registration of Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products »
Citizens recently raised questions related to the application of the Herbal Directive (Directive 2004/24/EC) as regards the implications of the end of the transitional period of the Directive on 30 April 2011 and the simplified procedure which does not require safety tests and clinical trials. You can find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
White blood cell 'master switch' discovery to aid rheumatoid arthritis treatments»
Scientists in the UK have identified a protein that acts as a 'master switch' in certain white blood cells, determining whether they promote or inhibit inflammation.
European Medicines Agency publishes final ‘Road map to 2015’»
The 'Road map to 2015' sets out the Agency's vision in further developing its role as a European public-health agency in the field of medicines.
Influenza progresses in Europe: there is still time to take preventive measures against it»
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) published its initial Risk Assessment on this season’s influenza in Europe. The report analyses the main features, risks to human health and likely course of the 2010/2011 influenza season in Europe.
Genetic research offers hope of improved treatment for Huntington's disease »
Research led by the University of Leicester in the UK has raised hopes about possible new treatments for devastating neurodegenerative disorders such as Huntington's disease, for which there is currently no cure.
United Nations urge protection of children against marketing of unhealthy food»
The UN health agency today called for action to reduce the exposure of children to the marketing of food with high contents of fat, sugar or salt, which exposed them to the risk of noncommunicable diseases caused by poor diet during their lives.
Health Priorities under the Hungarian Presidency »
The Hungarian Presidency took over the rotating presidency of the European Union from Belgium on 1 January this year. In terms of health priorities, the Hungarian Presidency’s overarching theme will focus on “Patient and Professional Pathways in Europe”.
European Patients' Forum welcomes the directive on cross border health care»
EPF welcomes the Directive as it creates a legal framework codifying patients’ rights into EU law. Much of the value of the Directive lies in the basis it sets for future European cooperation in crucial areas, such as HTA, quality and safety, eHealth and rare diseases.
New seasonal Influenza 2011 website »
Information on the epidemic situation, what the EU is doing, national contact points for each Member State to inform citizens on how to cope with seasonal flu during this winter.
Smoking cessation's benefits»
Quitting tobacco use has many benefits for both individuals and society.For individuals, quitting at any point in life provides both immediate and long-term benefits to health.
Remote patient monitoring and treatment can improve care provision»
A report on the findings of the study, published today by the JRC's Institute for Prospective and Technological studies (IPTS), explores the current status of Personal Health Systems and, more specifically, of the Remote Patient Monitoring and Treatment market in Europe.
Europe boosts cross-border cancer research»
Networking and working jointly across borders are already intrinsic parts of cutting-edge research in Europe and abroad.
Reducing the marketing of unhealthy food to children »
WHO's marketing recommendations aim to reduce the exposure of children to advertisements of unhealthy foods.
Alzheimer's: will it become a health priority for Europe?»
Every year 1.4 million Europeans develop some type of dementia. It is estimated that 35.6 million people worldwide suffered from dementia in all its forms in 2010. A report being debated at the European Parliament called for more sharing of scientific knowledge, raising public awareness to recognise early symptoms and setting up specialist centres.
Clearer rules on seeking healthcare abroad »
MEPs on Wednesday approved a new EU law setting out patients' rights to seek medical care in another EU country. The legislation clarifies the rules for reimbursement, including when advance authorisation may be required.
Q&A: Patients' rights to cross-border healthcare»
A newly adopted EU law clarifies patients' rights on access to and reimbursement for treatment outside their home country.
New developments in drug market a test for Europe»
According to the annual report almost 4 million Europeans consume cannabis almost daily making it the most popular drug.
Victory for people with Alzheimer's »
People at all stages of Alzheimer’s will now be able to access drugs on the NHS that can slow the progression of the disease.
Ageing at the forefront of European research»
Researchers are helping Europe, and the EU in particular, meet the challenges imposed on the region by an ageing population and declining birth rates. They are also tackling how fragmentation is affecting the impact and efficiency of international and interdisciplinary research efforts.
European status report on alcohol and health 2010»
The harmful use of alcohol creates a significant disease burden and in many countries causes public health problems leading to a substantial health, social and economic burden.
Hungarian Presidency of the EU: WHO/Europe contributes to health priorities »
WHO/Europe is working closely with the Hungarian Presidency, providing expertise on a range of health issues in preparation for and during upcoming events.
Safe maintenance in practice »
The new approaches presented in this report demonstrate clearly that good occupational safety and health (OSH) management practices are at the heart of reliable and safe maintenance.
An innovative test for diagnosing diabetes »
A new test for diagnosing diabetes mellitus offers a more practical approach to test for the disease that affects over 220 million people worldwide.
EFSA launches public consultation on guidance for the risk assessment of nanomaterials in food and feed »
The guidance document outlines that in this evolving area of science, it remains essential to adequately characterise the ENM (engineered nanomaterial) following classical risk assessment practices; hazard identification and hazard characterisation followed by exposure assessment and risk characterisation.
Preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV »
A new study finds giving HIV positive mothers a combination of 3 antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding cuts HIV infections in infants by 43% by the age of one and reduces transmissions during breastfeeding by 54%.
Health programme: Commission Decision of 22 December 2010 amending Decision 2009/964/EU »
This Commission Decision amends Decision 2009/964/EU on the adoption of the Work plan for 2010 for the implementation of the second programme of Community action in the field of health (2008- 2013), on the selection, award and other criteria for financial contributions to the actions of this programme and Community payment to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
4 countries release data on exposure to second-hand smoke»
The 4 European countries (Poland, the Russian Federation, Turkey and Ukraine) participating in the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) have released their data.
European Medicines Agency opens public discussion on need for active control in clinical trials»
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has published a reflection paper on the need for active control in therapeutic areas where use of a placebo is deemed ethical and one or more established medicines are available. The reflection paper is open for public consultation until 31 March 2011.
Urgent action essential to protect malaria therapies says WHO »
The world risks losing its most potent treatment for malaria unless steps are quickly taken to prevent the development and spread of drug resistant parasites, according to a new action plan released today by WHO and Roll Back Malaria partnership (RBM).
New Health-EU videos on child obesity and alzheimer»
Videos on Health-EU describe what can Europe do to fight the fat and how to improve EU research on alzheimer.
Hungary to push healthcare 'tourism' at EU helm »
The incoming Hungarian EU Presidency will try to encourage healthcare "tourism" in Europe as the EU tries to push through new legislation to facilitate cross-border treatment - EurActiv.com reports.
Violence against women: an urgent public health priority»
Violence against women has been described as “perhaps the most shameful human rights violation, and the most pervasive.” Addressing violence against women is central to the achievement of Millennium Development Goal (MDG) on women's empowerment and gender equality.
Study points to potential new cancer drug »
Scientists have uncovered details of the workings of a protein that both slows the spread of cancer and boosts the efficiency of chemotherapy.
Consultation on the pilot European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing »
The European Commission is seeking the views of public and private organisations, companies and individual citizens on how Europe could scale up innovation to meet the challenges of the ageing population in Europe, and in particular on a pilot European Innovation Partnership (EIP) on active and healthy ageing.
New approach detects Alzheimer’s disease markers in the blood »
Scientists have used a new approach to detect Alzheimer’s disease in the blood according to research published in the journal Cell
Obesity and the Economics of Prevention: Fit not Fat»
This OECD book contributes to evidence-based policy making by exploring multiple dimensions of the obesity problem. It examines the scale and characteristics of the epidemic, the respective roles and influence of market forces and governments, and the impact of interventions.
Drinking green tea could help prevent dementia, says study »
Researchers tested the effect of a component of green tea, CAGTE once it had been digested, to see how it affected a key protein in Alzheimer's disease.
A mutation that increases impulsivity»
Researchers have identified a gene associated with higher levels of impulsive behaviour, particularly when alcohol has been consumed.
EU project develops 'in-office' health test system»
The MICROACTIVE ('Automatic detection of disease related molecular cell activity') project has developed a microchip that allows physicians to diagnose a patient's condition right in their office. MICROACTIVE received EUR 1.6 million under the EU's Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).
EU-funded researchers develop novel approach to investigate bacteria»
British researchers have come up with a new way to investigate potentially deadly disease-causing bacteria. This fresh approach could help accelerate the process of finding vaccines.
Psychological interventions key for keeping depression at bay»
One of the most common mental health disorders among the elderly is depression, and things are not getting any easier since the ageing population continues to rise.
Scientists find link between gene and diabetes drug mechanism»
EU-funded scientists say they have genetic proof of how a commonly used diabetes drug works for patient treatment.
WHO 2010 review: key health issues»
2010 public health challenges and achievements
Spain goes 100% smoke-free»
On 21 December 2010, Spanish lawmakers voted to approve a tough new anti-smoking law, meaning that from 2 January, all enclosed public places are no-smoking zones
New UNFPA Director appointed»
On 1 January 2011, Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin became the fourth Executive Director of UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund. He holds the rank of Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations.