On November 9, 2011, the European Parliament submitted a draft of its new 2014-2020 Health Promotion Programme and Consumer Products Programme. Both programs aim to promote the health of EU citizens, enhance their understanding of consumer products, and foster economic development. The Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) called for the reduction of the use and exposure risks of toxic chemicals to also be included in these programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The draft bill allocates \u20ac4.4 billion and \u20ac2 billion to the Health Promotion Programme and the Consumer Products Programme, respectively. Through the Health Promotion Programme, the European Parliament aims to improve cancer prevention and control, and recommends more effective mechanisms across the EU to enable early detection and treatment of symptoms, thereby increasing cure rates. It also seeks to establish easier consultation and exchange mechanisms across the EU to facilitate the sharing and research of cancer knowledge and experience, leading to better care. The Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) is optimistic about the bill, stating that its passage would reduce the risk of cancer prevention and exposure to toxic substances. However, they also hope that EU regulations on endocrine-affecting chemicals will be revised simultaneously for greater effectiveness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The bill is currently under discussion in the European Parliament, and further news is expected before the end of 2013.<\/p>\n\n\n\n