ISSUP at the EUSPR Conference: Advancing Community-Based Prevention

From September 11th to 13th, 2024, the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP) participated in the European Society for Prevention Research (EUSPR) Conference held in Cremona, Italy. This year marked the 15th Anniversary of the EUSPR, with the theme “Prevention in and with Communities,” emphasising the critical role that community engagement plays in developing effective prevention strategies.

The Conference served as a platform to explore the challenges and opportunities within prevention science, particularly in community settings. Keynotes and special sessions highlighted the importance of connecting research with the practical needs of communities, addressing both the advantages and drawbacks of various prevention approaches.

ISSUP representatives included Livia Edegger (Deputy Chief Executive), Goodman Sibeko (Scientific Advisor), and Rasha Abi Hana (Scientific Support Coordinator).

Livia Edegger, chaired the International Networking Forum (INF), which took place both virtually and in person. The INF updates included key information on various initiatives, such as the European Society for Prevention Research (EUSPR), Society for Prevention Research (SPR), BRAPEP, and the Asia Pacific Society for Prevention Research.

Rasha Abi Hana presented a poster titled “Facilitators, Challenges, and Lessons Learnt from INEP Plus Spanish Language Version: Adapting Prevention Training for Spanish-Speaking Participants.” The poster, co-authored by Rasha Abi Hana, Rachele Donini, Jeff Lee, and José Luis Benítez Villa, highlighted findings from the Introduction to Evidence-Based Prevention (INEP) Plus Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) involving Spanish-speaking participants. It emphasised the importance of cultural relevance in prevention training and detailed key lessons learnt from adapting the programme for diverse communities.

The EUSPR Conference underscored the vital importance of prevention in safeguarding community health and well-being. Collaborative efforts among researchers, practitioners, and community members are essential to develop and implement effective prevention strategies. By sharing knowledge and resources, we can better address the unique challenges faced by communities and ensure that prevention initiatives are not only evidence-based but also culturally relevant and sustainable.