Against tobacco and vaping: Health Ministry reinforces prevention campaign
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Panama's Ministry of Health held its "A Todo Pulmón" (To All Lungs) race to promote healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about tobacco and vaping risks.
- Hundreds participated in the 5km event on the Cinta Costera 3, emphasizing the slogan "Unmasking the appeal and thus... we combat addiction to tobacco and nicotine!"
- Funds raised will support an association assisting patients with mental health conditions and schizophrenia.
Panama's Ministry of Health organized the fourth "A Todo Pulmón" (To All Lungs) Carrera Caminata, a race and walk event aimed at promoting healthy living and educating the public on the dangers of tobacco and vaping. Hundreds gathered at Cinta Costera 3 on Sunday morning for the 5-kilometer run, which kicked off at 6:30 a.m.
The event operated under the theme "Unmasking the appeal and thus... we combat addiction to tobacco and nicotine!" Participants included runners, amateur athletes, and families. During the event, Health Minister Fernando Boyd Galindo stressed the importance of community activities that encourage exercise and inform people, particularly young individuals, about the adverse effects of smoking and electronic cigarettes.
"Exercising will make us healthy, and thus achieve aging with dignity and health," the minister stated. This year's event also had a charitable component, with proceeds directed to the Association of Patients, Relatives, and Friends with Mental Illnesses and Schizophrenia. The funds will aid the association's efforts and support provided to its patients.
Norma Astudillo from the National Commission for Tobacco Control and Oris Iglesias, Director of Health Promotion, were among the Minsa authorities present. The event concluded with the distribution of medals and awards. The Ministry of Health affirmed its commitment to continuing prevention initiatives, health promotion, and public policies focused on maintaining smoke-free spaces and reducing respiratory and cardiovascular risks associated with tobacco and nicotine use.
El venir a hacer ejercicio nos va a hacer sanos, y así lograr envejecer de una manera digna y sana
Originally published by TVN Panamá in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.