Action programme on pollution-related diseases
The European Commission has adopted a proposal for a five-year action programme on the prevention of diseases which are caused, provoked or aggravated by environmental pollution. Estimates suggest that one in three Europeans suffer from allergies, and recent research indicates that the situation is worsening at an alarming rate, with one in two people likely to be affected soon. The Commission's strategy is based on a threefold approach: - Firstly, taking action at source to reduce pollutants; - Secondly, taking action to limit people's exposure to pollutants (for instance, by issuing warnings); - And thirdly, mitigation of adverse health effects on individuals exposed to pollutants. Actions to be implemented will include: - Establishing priorities for the identification of diseases in which specific pollutants are thought to play a role; - Analysing and reviewing data on the role of such pollutants in specific diseases; - Exchange of information on pollution-related diseases and their prevention; - Actions aimed at achieving better public understanding of risks, their assessment and management; - Reinforcement and linkage of information campaigns; - Comparisons of various education and training initiatives with a view to promoting best practice; - Reviewing the effectiveness of preventive measures taken. The proposal will now be discussed by the European Parliament and Council, who will formally adopt the Decision on the programme. The Commission aims to have the programme in operation from 1999.