UNIVERSIDAD EVANGÉLICA DE EL SALVADOR
Universidad Evangélica de El Salvador Receives Certification as the First Evangelical University of El Salvador in El Salvador.
Tobacco Smoke-Free Higher Education Institution
The Fondo Solidario para la Salud (Fosalud), in collaboration with the Universidad Evangélica de El Salvador and the Comisión Nacional Antidrogas, presented a study on the use of heated tobacco and electronic cigarettes among university students in El Salvador. This study, which surveyed 1569 students from 14 universities, sought to identify the characteristics and factors associated with the use of these products.
Main Results:
8.3% of students have ever used heated tobacco, and 2.4% currently use it, with a higher prevalence among males.
As for electronic cigarettes, 22% of students have ever used them, and 6% are current users.
The acquisition of these products is usually done through third parties, stores and online purchases, with electronic cigarettes with nicotine being the most preferred.
At the event, Fosalud highlighted various strategies aimed at preventing and treating the harm associated with tobacco consumption and its derivatives. One of the most important initiatives is the certification of Smoke-Free Universities. The Evangelical University of El Salvador became the first institution of higher education in the country to receive this certification, being a pioneer in the creation of healthy and smoke-free environments.
In addition, during the ceremony, diplomas of recognition were awarded to students and university staff who passed the basic course on Addiction Prevention, underlining the institution’s commitment to training and awareness of health issues.
The rector of the Evangelical University of El Salvador, Dra. Cristina Juarez de Amaya, along with other university authorities and representatives of Fosalud and the National Anti-Drug Commission, was present to receive the certification and celebrate these significant achievements.
Fosalud, reaffirming its commitment to the fight against tobacco, will continue to provide technical, scientific and logistical support to universities that wish to join this initiative, working together to protect the health and welfare of the Salvadoran population.
