UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Objective:1.To train young volunteers as Health Promoters.2.To present models of healthy behavior to the general population; providing information on smoking, diet, and exposure to sun.3.To study knowledge and awareness about healthy behavior among Valencian university students.

Methods:1.Training of health promoters by doctors and psychologists on questions of health, and in communication skills based on counseling. These specialists are the fundamental weapon in health promotion campaigns aimed at the Valencian population.2.Developing annual Health Promotion Campaigns: campaigns to prevent skin cancer, anti-smoking campaigns in the universities and healthy lifestyle campaigns in the universities.3.Evaluation of knowledge, awareness and healthy behavior through specifically designed questionnaires. Results:In the last five years, we have carried out promotions in 30 local areas informing 23,500 people about the risks of exposure to the sun and methods of protection. We have also made 42 presentations in the University of Valencia, providing information to 14,000 students. Results on the habits and beliefs about health among this population will be offered. Conclusions:Encouraging healthy lifestyles, centered especially on the prevention of smoking, a balanced diet and minimizing exposure to the sun, can all contribute towards reducing avoidable risk factors in cancer. We believe it is necessary to familiarize ourselves with the knowledge and beliefs held about health among the general population in order to cover possible shortcomings, and to prevent risk behavior; all through an accessible and efficient model for good health.