The Regional Secretary for Health stressed in Angra do Heroísmo the importance of collecting the contribution of all entities working in the area of addictions in order to better define their action.
 
"We know that the prevalence of addictions in the Azores is very high and, as such, we must call for action all entities working in this area and families so that no one will resign from their role," said Rui Luís. The government official spoke on the sidelines of a meeting with partner organisations in promoting healthy lifestyles and combating addictions.
 
According to the Secretary for Health, the issue of addictions is not limited to drug use. There are other warning signs and studies, such as the use of Internet and games.
 
In turn, the Regional Director for Prevention and Combat to Dependencies, who also attended the meeting, stressed the importance of the study approved by the Legislative Assembly in January, taking into consideration that "the phenomenon of addiction and consumption patterns have changed."
 
Suzete Frias warned of the emergence of new psychoactive substances and the change in attitude and perception regarding substances.
 
"The study intends to assess risk factors, not only individual, but in terms of society itself that are promoting this sharp increase in consumption," added the government official.
 
The study on additive behaviours and dependencies, which stems from a resolution project unanimously approved at the Legislative Assembly, should be completed within a year. It will identify the profile of consumers in terms of age, gender, education, consumption patterns and socio-economic status.
 
The scope of this study is extended to other addictive behaviours, such as alcohol, tobacco, gambling and the Internet.