On October 23, Puigcerdà hosted the first Smoking Conference of the Alt Pirineu and Aran Health Region , a meeting that brought together professionals from different areas of health to share experiences, knowledge and challenges in tackling smoking in the region.
The conference was jointly organized by the Catalan Society for the Care and Treatment of Tobacco Consumption (SCATT) of the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Generalitat of Catalonia, the Catalan Institute of Health, the Catalan Network of Smoke-Free Hospitals, the Puigcerdà Hospital Foundation, the Cerdanya Hospital, the Integrated Care Services of Aran and the Aran Welfare and Health Service.
The Catalan Network of Smoke-Free Hospitals , coordinated by the Tobacco Control Unit of the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) , participated in the event by moderating a round table dedicated to territorial experiences. This space highlighted the work carried out by the different healthcare and community devices in the region in tackling smoking.
Throughout the day, experiences from various areas were shared, such as hospitals, primary care and community pharmacy, highlighting the importance of adapting interventions to the characteristics and needs of each environment . Realities such as care in rural areas or cross-border health services were addressed, which pose specific challenges but also offer opportunities. The day also allowed for a deeper look into the pharmacological and psychological treatment of smoking and to dismantle some false beliefs about electronic cigarettes.
Beyond the presentations and debates, the meeting was an excellent opportunity to learn about initiatives, share experiences and, above all, strengthen ties between professionals. Because advancing in tobacco control also involves joining efforts, sharing learning and networking.
The day also had a particularly emotional component, with a very meaningful memory for Angela Martínez-Picó, the promoter of the initiative, which unfortunately could not see it become a reality. The Catalan Network of Smoke-Free Hospitals wants to recognize her leadership and her career as one of the great references in the field of smoking in Catalonia. Her commitment, her ability to mobilize people and her dynamizing force have left a deep mark. But, above all, she is remembered as a close, warm and generous person. Her absence continues to be very present among the professionals who shared the path with her.
We celebrate the success of this first day and hope that it is just the first of many. May this initiative continue to grow and contribute to consolidating a network of professionals committed to the prevention and treatment of smoking in the Alt Pirineu and Aran.
