Local Euro MP welcomes full EU ban on animal-tested cosmetics

LOCAL Euro MP and Vice President of the Wigan and Leigh RSPCA Brian Simpson has welcomed a complete ban on cosmetics tested on animals in the European Union this week.

Brian said:- "Although we have already achieved a total ban on testing cosmetic ingredients on animals within the EU, until now there have still been some products sold here after being tested on animals in other parts of the world.  But now the phasing out period has come to an end, so cosmetics tested on animals can no longer be marketed anywhere in the EU. People in the UK are well known for their support of animal welfare, a fact that is proved by the many letters I have received from my constituents on this issue. Labour MEPs have long campaigned for a complete end to the cruel and unnecessary practice of animal testing for cosmetic purposes. We are delighted that the EU has shown its full commitment to animal welfare. The ban sends out a strong signal to countries that have not yet introduced similar laws, and the EU will continue to work to promote animal welfare worldwide. European consumers represent the biggest market for the cosmetics industry and to sell cosmetic products in the EU, the industry will have to ensure that there's no more animal testing."

People need to protect their pins according to experts at the Royal

LOOKING after your legs could help you live longer according to a vascular consultant at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital.  Dr Rao Vallabhaneni is urging people in Merseyside to reduce their risk of developing peripheral arterial disease (PAD) by walking regularly, as part of Vascular Disease Awareness Week, 11 March 2013 to 17 March 2013.

PAD is a common condition in which a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries restricts blood supply to leg muscles. Leg pain on can be an indicator of PAD, but too often, people see the signs too late, which can result in the need for amputation. PAD sufferers are also at a risk of sudden heart attack or stroke.

Dr Vallabhaneni, vascular consultant at the Royal, said:- "PAD affects one in five people over the age of 60. Although many people with PAD have no symptoms, some have painful aching in their legs brought on by walking. These aches will usually disappear after a few minutes of resting.

There are certain things that can increase your chances of developing PAD and other cardiovascular diseases, including: smoking, which is by far the single most significant risk factor; diabetes – both type 1 and type 2; high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

The good news though is that medication and lifestyle changes - such as stopping smoking, losing weight and exercising regularly - can ease the symptoms of PAD and reduce the chances of the condition worsening.

We are therefore urging Merseysiders to make the right lifestyle decisions which will help them reduce their risk of developing PAD."

In order to further promote Vascular Awareness Week, staff from the Royal's vascular and endovascular service teamed up with Roy Castle FagEnds to man a stall in the hospital foyer promoting a range of walking clubs for all levels of fitness.

The service at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital is a national centre of excellence for the care of vascular patients.

The service currently has 8 highly experienced consultants working across three trusts, with major operations taking place at the Royal and day case procedures taking place at other local hospitals. For more information visit:- circulationfoundation.org.uk.