The University of Montpellier is launching the third edition of its environmental health program
On September 28, 2023, the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Montpellier will launch its Primary Care, Environment, and Health (SPES) program for the third consecutive year. This environmental health training program is led by the university’s Department of General Medicine (DUMG), in partnership with the Avicenne University Multidisciplinary Health Center (MSPU) in Cabestany (66). The program, primarily intended for healthcare professionals, will also feature a public conference on the impact of sports on health.
A training program selected under the 3rd Regional Health and Environment Plan, led by the Occitanie Regional Health Agency
The SPES program is aligned with the objectives of the 3rd PRSE, led by the Occitanie Regional Health Agency (ARS) and launched in 2017. Within this framework, SPES aims to increase public and healthcare professionals’ engagement with environmental health. At the Faculty of Medicine, the SPES program integrates environmental health and the “One Health” concept into the curriculum for future doctors of general medicine. This program is also part of the broader initiative centered on the i-Site project“Montpellier University of Excellence,”which focuses on three key areas: nourishing, caring for, and protecting.
An environmental health program for professionals, adapted for the general public
The SPES program consists of two phases for professionals:
- Throughout the year, online courses will be offered to residents, future general practitioners, and their instructors. Learn more at +
- On September 28, an in-person training session will be held for these same residents. The program will include thematic sessions and workshops designed to help them get started on their medical thesis research in environmental health.
The program is also available to the general public:
- A conference open to the public will be held on September 28 in the late afternoon at the historic building of the Montpellier Faculty of Medicine on the topic of sports and health, giving everyone the opportunity to learn more about these subjects. It will be led by Dr. Olivier Coste, a medical advisor to the regional director for the sports and health initiative and also affiliated with the Regional Academic Directorate for Youth, Engagement, and Sports (DRAJES).
Physical inactivity is the leading noncommunicable cause of death worldwide
It has been proven that regular physical activity helps prevent and manage chronic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and several types of cancer, as well as high blood pressure. It also improves mental health, quality of life, and overall well-being.
“Initiatives are being promoted to help our fellow citizens take up and maintain physical activity. These initiatives are being particularly highlighted in the run-up to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Dr. Olivier Coste will discuss the benefits of physical activity and answer questions from participants,” explains Dr. François Carbonnel, university lecturer in Montpellier, academic director of the SPES program, and practitioner at the MSPU Avicenne.
Practical information:
Date: September 28, 2023, at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Faculty of Medicine, 2 Rue de l’Ecole de Médecine, Montpellier Registration: here