World No Tobacco Day was commemorated on May 31, and various actions were carried out in Dénia to ensure that this important date did not go unnoticed. The Addictive Behavior Prevention Unit of Dénia (UPCCA) was in charge of distributing informative material in all educational centers and public buildings in Dénia, La Xara and Jesús Pobre.
The UPCCA technical staff, accompanied by volunteers, was present in Dénia's public institutes during recess, with information stands to raise awareness among students. From the UPCCA they wish to express their gratitude to Nerea Gómez and Naiara Sau, internship students at IES Sorts de la Mar, for their voluntary participation in this campaign. The prevention technicians were also present at the Public Integrated Vocational Training Center, handing out informative material to the students.
The main objective of this campaign was to sensitize the student population about the harmful effects of tobacco, the risks associated with its consumption and, above all, warn about the high risk of nicotine addiction. During these interventions, direct information was provided to the students who approached the stands, along with a brochure and a bracelet with the inscription "May 31 - World No Tobacco Day - Smoke-Free Spaces."
Taking advantage of these interactions, young people were talked to about the risks of smoking and the benefits of not smoking or quitting. The high degree of awareness shown by the students regarding tobacco is noteworthy, as well as their ability to recognize the harmful effects and advantages of not smoking.
Emphasis was also placed, including through informative posters, on the effects and risks of vaping and the use of non-combustion tobacco inhalation devices (catximba). It was emphasized that these products are not innocuous and do not represent a healthier alternative to traditional tobacco, since the marketing behind them seeks to attract followers among the young population.
In addition, this year posters have been placed and all the entrances to the educational centers have been marked with road markings to remind everyone that they are smoke-free spaces. These measures seek to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining healthy and tobacco-free environments.
The UPCCA and all those involved in this initiative hope that these actions will contribute to promoting tobacco-free lifestyles among young people and encourage informed decision-making about health.
