European Parliament - EPRS Podcasts, What Europe does for you

Over 70 million people in the EU live with some kind of disability (a long-standing physical or mental condition limiting their movements, senses or activities). People with disabilities often face barriers that prevent them from participating in society on an equal basis with others.

Cancer is a group of diseases characterised by uncontrolled growth and the spread of abnormal cells. There are many possible causes for cancer. Over 30% of cancer deaths are preventable, mainly through avoiding risk factors and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

In the EU today there are more than 25 million blind and visually impaired people, i.e. with serious vision problems. Diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma or macular degeneration affect people of all ages. The number of people concerned by this invisible epidemic will grow substantially in the future, mostly because of the rapidly ageing population.

Like 71 % of European consumers, you possibly think the cosmetics and skin care products you use are important in your everyday life and have a strong influence on your wellbeing and quality of life.

Not so long ago, if you wanted to buy a package holiday, you went to a tour operator or travel agency. Nowadays, the internet is the place to buy travel services. In response to this development, in 2015, the EU decided to adapt and extend the rules protecting package holiday makers.

Do you, or someone close to you, suffer from hearing difficulties? Tens of millions of people are estimated to suffer from some degree of hearing loss in the EU. This figure is likely to grow due to factors like increased noise pollution. Often underestimated, and invisible, this health problem leads to difficulties in many aspects of daily life, like accessing information, communication, healthcare, education and employment.

Children now spend less time in school than in front of a TV set. Worryingly, by the age of 18, the average young European will have spent a full four years in front of a screen. Although there are potential benefits from watching TV, time dedicated to such media may displace other meaningful activities, such as reading, exercising or playing.

Most children use the internet not always under the supervision of an adult. The internet can offer them many opportunities to learn and have fun, but it can also be a source of threats for instance from exposure to harmful content or being contacted by cyberbullies, extremists, fraudsters or paedophiles.

Bus and coach passengers should have the same level of protection and assistance as is provided for users of other forms of transport. The EU has adopted specific rules for regular coach services of 250 km or more that start and end in an EU country.

Are you among the more than 17 million Europeans who suffer from food allergies? Thanks to the EU, you now have the right to be better informed about potential allergens in the food you buy.