Naples, May 14 – The results of the second edition of Project “Ponte,” an initiative focused on health prevention and awareness against gender-based violence, were presented on May 14th at the Regional Auditorium in Naples. The project, a collaboration between Cittadinanzattiva and LinkHealth, involved the Municipality of Naples, ASL Napoli 1 Centro, ASL Napoli 3 Sud, ASL Salerno, and ASL Benevento, with additional participation from Ospedale dei Colli and the University of Salerno.
Significant Gaps in Health Awareness Identified
A survey conducted among approximately 300 employees of companies in the Salerno and Benevento areas revealed significant gaps in health knowledge. 53% of respondents were either unaware or only vaguely familiar with the free oncological screenings and adult vaccinations offered by their local ASL. More than 50% expressed a desire to receive reminders for oncological screenings.
Regarding information on the risks of vaccine-preventable diseases (e.g., chronic pain from Herpes Zoster, pneumonia from Pneumococcus, respiratory complications from influenza), 53% admitted to having limited knowledge and wanting to learn more. Furthermore, approximately two-thirds of respondents expressed a desire for more information on recommended adult vaccines based on health conditions, as well as greater detail on their benefits and safety.
Project “Ponte”‘s Impact and Reach
The project successfully reached 2,250 individuals, conducted 289 screenings, provided 302 consultations, and administered 132 vaccinations. These figures underscore the project’s significant investment in public health.
Lorenzo Latella, president of Cittadinanza attiva Campania, highlighted the involvement of six schools in Naples and its province: “Gian Battista Vico” State High School and “Enrico Caruso” Institute (both returning after a positive experience last year), “Gentileschi” High Schools, and “Umberto Boccioni” State Art High School in Agnano (covering an area of ASL Napoli 1 centro not reached last year). In the ASL Napoli 3 Sud territory, the “Don Milani” State Institute in Gragnano and the “Enrico Medi” State High School in Cicciano were involved.
Training Health Ambassadors and Combating Gender-Based Violence
From early February to May, 350 “Health Ambassadors” were trained through a comprehensive program consisting of 45 meetings. Operators from ASL Napoli 1 Centro, ASL Napoli 3 Sud, and Cittadinanzattiva served as trainers, covering topics such as health, prevention, healthy lifestyles, combating gender-based violence, and promoting positive social relationships.
The initiative not only aimed to improve health literacy but also to empower individuals to become advocates for well-being within their communities, addressing critical social issues alongside physical health.
