Cristina Braço Forte , Mónica Grafino and António Gerardo , pneumologists at Hospital da Luz Lisboa, organized an initiative raising awareness on the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine, near eighty 7 th and 9 th grade students of Escola Básica Professor Pedro D’Orey Cunha, of Damaia-Amadora School Group. The purpose of the initiative, in the context of the World No Tobacco Day (May 31), was not only to inform but also to reinforce the youths’ autonomy to make healthy and conscious choices . Along the session, the Hospital da Luz team did a presentation explaining in a simple and clear way what tobacco is, how electronic cigarettes work, and the risks associated to the use of nicotine, that is a highly addictive substance, as well as the harmful effects it has for health, particularly during adolescence. During the quiz, the students, grouped in teams, were encouraged to think and decide collectively on the topics proposed. In the end, every youth received a certificate of participation. “This way, we were able to promote a debate in group, encouraging students to share what they already know about the theme and pose their doubts”, explains Cristina Braço Forte. Hospital da Luz thanks Escola Básica Professor Pedro D’Orey da Cunha for the opportunity to organize this initiative and for all the collaboration provided. The promotion of health near the younger generations is fundamental towards building a healthier and more conscious future.
