16/02/2007 (Agence Europe) - British Conservative John Bowis seized the opportunity provided by the announcement made by Dame Anita Roddick on 14 February that she is carrying the Hepatitis C virus, to call for concerted action at European level against this serious liver disease. Dame Anita, who is the founder of Body Shop (famous for its brand of cosmetics), had been diagnosed with the disease 34 years after being infected, Mr Bowis notes, stressing the silent nature of this pandemic. Twelve million people in Europe are infected with the virus. John Bowis, who issued a written declaration for signature by his colleagues last November, pushes for adoption of a European recommendation ensuring early diagnosis and wider access to treatment and care. (oj)