Funchal highlights prevention and health promotion at SESARAM conference

Helena Leal spoke at the opening session of the 1st Public Health Unit of SESARAM Conference at Colégio dos Jesuítas on 23 September. The conference takes place on 23 and 24 September. Leal said the Municipality of Funchal is committed to disease prevention and the promotion of health and well-being.

Leal said the municipality has increasingly focused on health and well-being, longevity and active ageing. She cited physical-activity programmes through Community Centres, Municipal Gyms and the Senior University, as well as mobility measures, reinforcement of the sports facilities network and public spaces for physical activity, socialising and participation.

Municipal action includes screenings and information and awareness initiatives to prevent disease, reduce risk factors, combat isolation and promote physical, mental and social well-being. Leal stressed food and health literacy. She said prevention begins with information, the choices people make and the conditions created to make those choices possible and more conscious.

Leal said health promotion requires coordinated intervention between different entities. She cited the partnership between SESARAM, the Public Health Unit and the Municipality of Funchal. Their Diabetes em Movimento project is for people with type 2 diabetes and centres on regular physical exercise. It held 100 physical exercise sessions at the Funchal Community Centre between October 2025 and June 2026.

Leal also cited the planned implementation in October of a multidisciplinary obesity intervention model in primary health care. She described it as an integrated response for prevention and follow-up. She reaffirmed the municipality's commitment to continue as an active partner in building a healthier and more inclusive city.

This site previously reported that Funchal hosts second initiative on health and well-being promotion.

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