Medical students launch STI prevention campaign at Portuguese festivals

The National Association of Medical Students (ANEM) is conducting awareness campaigns regarding the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) at summer festivals across Portugal. Through its Safe&Fest project, medical students are engaging with young people at various events, including FAUPfest, Sound Waves, and Sons no Parque, with upcoming presence at Vodafone Paredes de Coura.

The initiative comes in response to data from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), which indicates a concerning upward trend in STI rates in both Portugal and Europe. ANEM aims to promote health literacy, combat stigma, and encourage the use of barrier contraceptives and early diagnosis.

Maria Fontão, president of ANEM, stated that the project allows the association to reach youth in their own environments, providing scientifically based information to encourage more conscious decisions regarding sexual and reproductive health.