Public Health in Porto – Key Institutions and Initiatives 🌍

Porto, one of Portugal's largest cities, plays a crucial role in shaping public health policies and conducting scientific research in this field. Several renowned institutions contribute to improving both local and global health outcomes. Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA) The National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA) is a public institution under the Portuguese Ministry of Health, with scientific, technical, administrative, and financial autonomy. Founded in 1899 by physician and humanist Ricardo Jorge, it serves as a public health laboratory, national reference laboratory, and national health observatory. INSA operates in Lisbon, Porto, and Águas de Moura, with six main departments: 🔹 Department of Food and Nutrition 🔹 Department of Infectious Diseases 🔹 Department of Epidemiology 🔹 Department of Genetics Public Health Initiatives in Porto Porto is actively engaged in various public health programs, including: ✔️ Vaccination campaigns to prevent infectious diseases. ✔️ Health screenings for early detection of chronic diseases. ✔️ Research on environmental health and disease prevention. ✔️ Mental health programs to address well-being in urban communities. Porto’s commitment to public health ensures that residents have access to quality healthcare and preventive measures, making it a key player in Portugal’s health system. What do you think are the biggest public health challenges today? 🤔