Commission hopes to publish report on air travel-related deep vein thrombosis by end-2004: answer to parliamentary question

Strasbourg, 24 October 2002

Verbatim report of proceedings on 24 October 2002, Part A.

Question no 94 by Arlene McCarthy (H-0686/02)
Subject: Air-related deep vein thrombosis

Answer
The Commission intends to support a scientific study on deep vein thrombosis and the possible links with air travel. The results of this research, which would be carried out under the auspices of the World Health Organisation, will be published in a final report, which would be expected by the end of December 2004.

It would therefore be too early to start an awareness campaign for consumers at this stage. Should scientific evidence of the causal link between air travel and Deep Vein Trombosis (DVT) be put forward, the Commission will consider taking such action. It would however be very important for all Member States to actively take part in such a campaign. The responsibility of disseminating the information to consumers as to the risks of flying would lie with the Member States' Health Departments, airline doctors, general practicians and other partners of the health sector.