Funchal Municipality reinforces commitment to public health and disease prevention

Helena Leal, the Councilor for Health for the Funchal Municipality, reaffirmed the city's commitment to disease prevention and the promotion of health and well-being during the opening of the I Public Health Unit Conferences of SESARAM.

The municipal strategy focuses on longevity and active aging through several key areas: promoting physical activity via community centers, municipal gyms, and senior universities; enhancing mobility; and strengthening sports equipment networks. The municipality also conducts screenings and awareness campaigns to reduce risk factors and combat social isolation.

Leal emphasized the importance of health and food literacy, stating that an informed population is better prepared to recognize risk factors and adopt preventive behaviors. She also highlighted the necessity of inter-entity cooperation, specifically noting the partnership between SESARAM and the Funchal Municipality. One such collaborative project, ‘Diabetes em Movimento’, encourages regular exercise for individuals with type 2 diabetes and has conducted 100 physical activity sessions at the Funchal Community Center.