Dr. Ana Filipa Fernandes is a Family Physician at USF D. Sancho I in Portugal and she has been an active member of GRESP (the Respiratory Diseases Study Group of the Portuguese Association of General Practice and Family Medicine) since 2018. She has participated in and continue to contribute to research projects in the field of respiratory health. Additionally, she serves as a Reviewer for the Revista Portuguesa de Medicina Geral e Familiar and regularly provide training in respiratory and cardiovascular health.
Read her interview and learn more about her role in the LungHealth4Life project.
Question: Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to your current role in the LungHealth4Life project?
A: I am a family doctor in Portugal and I belong to the Respiratory Diseases Study Group of the Portuguese Association of General and Family Medicine. From early on, I developed a strong interest in respiratory health because it is often overlooked compared to other topics like diabetes and hypertension. This motivated me to gain more knowledge in this area to better support my patients and help raise awareness of respiratory diseases among peers. Being part of the LungHealth4Life project aligns perfectly with my passion for improving respiratory health and making a difference in my community.
Question: What inspired you to work in the field of lung health?
A: I was inspired to work in lung health because I believe it is a critical yet underappreciated area of medicine. Respiratory diseases can have a significant impact on quality of life, and I wanted to ensure my patients receive the care they need. I also see this as an opportunity to raise awareness among my peers and the community about the importance of lung health.
Question: Why is lung health in children such an important area to focus on?
A: Children are the foundation of our population, and their health determines the future of our society. If we take care of their health from the very beginning, we can create healthier adults and seniors with less disease burden and better quality of life. Focusing on lung health in children not only helps prevent chronic respiratory diseases but also builds a healthier future for everyone.
Question: How do family doctors and primary care professionals contribute to lung health education and disease prevention?
A: Family doctors and primary care professionals are often the first point of contact for patients. We play a key role in educating families about lung health, identifying early signs of respiratory problems, and promoting healthy habits. By providing guidance and support, we help prevent diseases and ensure timely interventions when needed.
Question: How can this project help bridge the gap between school-based screening and ongoing respiratory care in the community?
A: This project connects the school environment with the broader healthcare system by identifying children at risk and providing education to families. It creates a pathway for continuous care, ensuring that children with potential respiratory issues receive follow-up and support in the community. This collaboration between schools and healthcare professionals is essential for long-term success in improving lung health.
Question: How do you hope this project will influence lung health policy and practice in the future?
A: I hope this project will highlight the importance of early detection and prevention of respiratory diseases in children, leading to stronger public health policies. By showing the benefits of school-based interventions, we can encourage policymakers to prioritise lung health and integrate similar programmes into national healthcare strategies.
For me, success would mean that we have raised awareness about lung health among children, families and educators. It would also mean that we have identified children at risk and provided them with the support they need. Ultimately, I hope this project inspires long-term changes in how we approach lung health, resulting in healthier communities and a reduced burden of respiratory diseases.
Question: Is there anything else you’d like to share about your involvement in the LungHealth4Life project?
A: I consider it an honour to be part of this initiative, working alongside such amazing people from different countries. Collaboration is key to achieving better health outcomes, both nationally and internationally. By sharing knowledge and working together, we can make a real difference in promoting lung health and preventing respiratory diseases. I am truly proud to contribute to this important project.
