The Pain epidemic

Zembla

12th January 2026 40 mins Season 35 Episode 3

One in four Dutch people suffer from chronic pain. Many of them use highly addictive painkillers, such as oxycodone and fentanyl, to alleviate their symptoms. But strikingly, this actually leads to more pain, and they become addicted. Treating pain is extremely complex. What works for one patient is completely ineffective for another. Renowned pain specialists speak candidly about the feeling of helplessness they experience when confronted with yet another desperate patient. Nearly all experts warn of the devastating consequences of long-term opioid use.

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Season 35 · Episode 4

Gas in de gevel

Tens of thousands of homes each year are insulated with UF foam sprayed into cavity walls. The material is considered sustainable and is subsidized for its energy savings and climate benefits. At the same time, residents across the country are reporting serious health problems after installation, including headaches, shortness of breath, and eczema. In some cases, the symptoms are so severe that residents are forced to leave their homes. Experts are raising concerns about the carcinogenic formaldehyde in the foam. Zembla is documenting the complaints and investigating the health risks of this insulation method.

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