A Multi-Disciplinary Intervention to Promote Health and Well-Being in Disaster Situations and Vulnerable Communities in Mexico: A Proposal from University Health Professionals

Abstract

Social determinants of health can shorten healthy life expectancy by longer than other risk factors, such as high blood pressure or obesity. Therefore, organized efforts are needed to diminish health inequalities and promote the overall well-being of vulnerable populations. Aliis Vivere is a group of students from different backgrounds, such as medicine, psychology, social work, anthropology, amongst others, which engages in solidarity actions to promote health and well-being of all, regardless of age, gender, origin, socioeconomic status, or any other condition. The group conducted a participatory health census in marginalized and vulnerable communities, as well as communities facing disaster situations, in order to identify major health challenges and offer appropriate assistance to promote physical, social, and psychological wellbeing. The aim of this project is to expand these actions to other communities and implement a series of longitudinal interventions, designed and planned with the health census. Our goal is to have an impact from an intersectoral and interprofessional point of view with divided responsibilities amongst the main stakeholders: the government, academia, civil society and, as a central component, the community itself.