The Department of Health and Social Affairs of Canton Ticino, Switzerland, unveiled its latest initiative – “Viviamo bene” (Living well) – alongside 2 new cantonal action programmes for disease prevention and health promotion for 2025–2028. Canton Ticino is an active member of the WHO Regions for Health Network, contributing to joint activities and exchanges with other members and with WHO.
“Viviamo bene”: a positive and inclusive vision for health
The “Viviamo bene” campaign aims to strengthen disease prevention and health promotion by fostering a positive, inclusive image of health. The first step was the launch of an engaging public campaign encouraging residents to reflect on their own perceptions of health. At a press conference on 3 December 2024, an information booth in the central Piazza Governo invited passersby to learn more and participate actively.
Going forward, the campaign will roll out actionable messages in various formats designed to help individuals and communities make informed decisions and exercise greater control over their lives. These communication efforts are aligned with the 2 cantonal action programmes.
Action-oriented programmes for 2025–2028
The 2 programmes address key health challenges, including the prevention of noncommunicable diseases and the promotion of health across all life stages. They share the same priorities as the programmes for 2021–2024, but place greater emphasis on 2 indicators: physical inactivity and loneliness. In addition, they have specific activities covering the adult stage of life, thereby covering all 3 main stages:
- children, adolescents and young adults
- adults
- older adults.
Coordinated by the Health Promotion and Evaluation Service within the Cantonal Medical Office, the programmes outline 59 targeted measures designed for diverse age groups and the general population. These measures will be implemented through collaborations with local partners in various community settings. By fostering synergies, the initiative aims to maximize the impact of public health goals, enhance health literacy, and empower individuals to make choices that benefit their well-being while respecting others.
Canton Ticino will collaborate with the WHO Regions for Health Network to ensure the findings and lessons learned from these initiatives are presented and discussed in international forums and with other regions in Europe.