Euro-MP calls for DVT awareness campaign

3.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 28th Jan 2004

West Midlands Euro-MP, Liz Lynne has again called for legislation to force airlines to be liable for the health of their passengers.

The Liberal Democrat MEP, is also calling for a DVT (Deep Vain Thrombosis) awareness campaign that is to be directed at airlines, passengers and doctors alike. Today, Liz Lynne took part in a round table discussion on DVT with other MEPs and commission officials together with experts in the field.

DVT is a condition in which a blood clot is formed in the calf, which can then travel to the lungs or brain causing adverse health effects, and even death. Both long and short-haul air travel has been linked with DVT due to cramped conditions and a decreased level of oxygen, among other factors. Fifty-four studies have been published on this issue and the United Nations has recently acknowledged that a connection between DVT and air travel does exist.

Mrs Lynne suffered from DVT three times following flights from Portugal, Pakistan and Crete, only one of which was recognised and diagnosed by a doctor.

Speaking today Liz said:

"We are asking the European Parliament to legislate, to give air travellers the same rights and protection as any other traveller by placing responsibility for the health of passengers on the airlines.

"The airlines must reduce all health risks, not just compete on price."

ENDS

For further information, comment or to book an interview, please telephone Liz Lynne on 0032 2284 7521 (Brussels) or 077644 52725 (mobile) or Press Officer Stuart Ritchie on 01789 266354 or 07833668158(mobile).