Advancing Addiction Interventions: Porto's Comprehensive Approach in the Municipal Health Plan

Background: The Porto Municipal Health Plan for 2022-2024 prioritizes initiatives targeting addictive behaviours and addictions within the community. Collaborating with the Public Health Unit Santo António, the Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences of the University of Porto (FPCEUP), and the Northern Regional Health Division for Intervention on Addictive Behaviours and Dependencies (DICAD), Porto aims to establish a Addictions Referral Network (RRAI) to comprehensively address addiction-related challenges. This includes developing digital monitoring tools, identifying areas lacking intervention, and promoting innovative social programs.

Methods: Efforts are underway to enhance communication channels tailored to different audiences, disseminate information on tobacco and alcohol legislation, and improve public signage to foster health-conscious environments. Integrated projects focus on evaluating existing interventions, identifying best practices, and fostering collaboration among organisations to address addiction effectively.

Results: By aligning with strategic objectives outlined in the Porto Municipal Health Plan, such as qualification of professionals, enhancing prevention strategies, and improving access to resources, Porto is addressing addictive behaviours comprehensively. Initiatives include capacity building for professionals, implementing intervention strategies, and promoting harm reduction approaches in recreational settings.

Conclusions: Porto's efforts to combat addiction underscore its commitment to public health. Through targeted communication, integrated projects, and resource optimization, Porto aims to mitigate the impact of addictive behaviours and promote a healthier community, aligning with broader objectives outlined in the Municipal Health Plan.