Transcript European Public Health Alliance

European Public Health Alliance
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A network of 85 non governmental
and not-for-profit organisations across
Europe working on health and healthrelated issues
Our mission is to improve the health
of European citizens and to increase
their participation in EU policy-making
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides
What are the public health issues
on pesticides?
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Exposure by consumers
Contamination in soil, groundwater
and rain
Exposure by farm workers and their
families
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides
A healthy diet and pesticides
Pesticide residue is of concern in
the context of healthy diet advice:
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Greater consumption of fruit and
vegetables, particularly 5-a-day
campaign
Greater use of plant based oils for
cooking
Good hydration (water, fruit juices)
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides
A major health concern:
Exposure of vulnerable populations
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Pregnant women
Infants + children
Older people
Patients with compromised immune
systems
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides
Elements in an effective pesticides
policy
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Use of the precautionary principle in setting
Maximum Residue Levels (MRL)
Withdrawal from the market of the most
toxic chemicals
Ongoing research into health impact of
pesticides on adults and children
Reduction in pesticide use and treatment
frequency
Effective monitoring and enforcement
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides
Action needed now
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Specific targets set at European
levels for reduction of pesticide use
Support measures for farmers to
adapt, training in good practice
Promotion of non chemical
alternatives including organic farming
Data available to the public
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides
European Public Health Alliance
33 Rue de Pascale
B-1040 Brussels
Belgium
Tel : +32-2 230 30 56
Fax : +32-2 233 38 80
[email protected]
www.epha.org
EPHA Presentation, Stakeholders conference on Pesticides