The research, driven by technicians from the Fundació Hospital d’Olot i Comarcal de la Garrotxa and the Olot City Council, with the collaboration of volunteers from the Catalan Association Against Cancer in Girona, has observed fewer smokers compared to the analysis conducted four years ago.

The evaluation, which gathered observational data such as the presence of smokers, tobacco odor, and the number of cigarette butts, shows an improvement compared to the previous diagnosis. However, the study's initiators emphasize the need to continue implementing preventive measures.

In the primary schools analyzed, the percentage of smokers has dropped from 3% four years ago to the current 2%, across 10 centers. The reduction is particularly noticeable during student drop-off and pick-up times. Nevertheless, the quantity of cigarette butts collected around the schools remains high, similar to 2022 figures, with approximately 400 butts detected.

In secondary schools, the study also identified young people smoking tobacco and using e-cigarettes in the surrounding areas. 2% of the observed youths were smokers, with a majority opting for e-cigarettes. The presence of cigarette butts is also a constant in these environments.

The objective of this data collection is to enhance understanding of educational environments, inform school officials, and promote preventive actions to reduce tobacco consumption and its visibility among children and young people.

The Garrotxa Sense Fum commission, led by the Olot hospital, will work to strengthen the project and establish systematic methodologies for continuous evaluation of the situation.