Cocaine and ketamine consumption rises in Europe: they are the weekend drugs
A study by the European Union Drugs Agency reveals a rise in weekend cocaine and ketamine consumption across 115 European cities, while MDMA usage has declined by 16%.

Latest news and stories about public safety in health in Portugal for expats and residents.
A study by the European Union Drugs Agency reveals a rise in weekend cocaine and ketamine consumption across 115 European cities, while MDMA usage has declined by 16%.

In 2025, infant mortality rates in Portugal have stabilized, yet certain municipalities exhibit alarming statistics that resemble those found in poorer countries. This raises concerns about healthcare policies and public safety measures in these areas.

António José Seguro, set to assume the presidency, prioritizes health in his first year and has indicated he will veto any labor legislation changes proposed by the government if they lack consensus in Social Concertation.

The coordinator of the Common Front criticized the failure to ensure minimum services during the INEM strike, attributing the issue to confusion among authorities. He highlighted that while some workers are putting in extra effort to maintain normal operations, the underlying problem remains a shortage of personnel. The Common Front is set to meet with the Ministry of Health to discuss the ongoing staffing issues and seek solutions.

Experts and patients are urging the Portuguese government to take decisive action against the growing obesity crisis, which currently impacts approximately two million adults in the country. They emphasize the need for effective policies and healthcare measures to address this public health issue.

Mayors in Barreiro are opposing the closure of the obstetrics and gynaecology emergency unit, citing that over 16,000 births have occurred there between 2014 and 2024. They find the decision to close the unit incomprehensible, especially in light of ongoing healthcare challenges, such as ambulances being held for hours at other emergency departments due to high patient volumes.

Five mayors from municipalities served by the Vila Franca de Xira Hospital are taking action against the closure of emergency services. They plan to submit a petition and send a letter to the Minister of Health to express their outrage over the decision, highlighting concerns about public safety and healthcare access.
Update: Mayors to Address Parliament In addition to a petition, the five mayors will also take their concerns to Parliament, seeking to raise awareness and garner support against the closure of emergency services at the Vila Franca de Xira Hospital.

The article discusses health issues in the Litoral Alentejano region, focusing on the fight for better conditions in the sector. It highlights a demonstration in Lisbon by User Committees, attended by hundreds of citizens, local officials, and health professionals, demanding more doctors, nurses, and improvements in hospital facilities and health centers. The region faces challenges such as a shortage of family doctors, deteriorating facilities, and long waiting times in various specialties. Additionally, the Litoral Alentejano Hospital requires more human resources, particularly nurses, to open new emergency services and ensure adequate care. The document also mentions the population served by the Local Health Unit of Litoral Alentejano, which covers about 100,000 inhabitants. Besides health issues, the text highlights cultural events, exhibitions, festivals, educational activities, and leisure in the region, reflecting an active cultural and social agenda.

One month after storm Kristin, the Leiria hospital continues to grapple with the aftermath of the disaster, which saw 177 polytrauma patients flood the emergency department in just six hours. Healthcare professionals faced significant challenges, including a lack of communication and blocked roads, forcing patients to arrive in their own vehicles. As attention shifted from the storm's immediate impact, underlying issues in the healthcare system have resurfaced, highlighting ongoing chaos and the need for improved public safety policies.

The establishment of a new hospital in the Litoral Alentejano region is presented as both a strategic decision and a necessary ethical and social obligation. The region faces significant healthcare challenges, including a shortage of family doctors, deteriorating facilities, and long wait times for various medical specialties. Recent protests have highlighted the demand for more healthcare professionals and improved hospital conditions. Additionally, the local health unit is working to enhance medical specialties and services, reflecting a commitment to better healthcare and community engagement in the region.

In response to recent information regarding the so-called “Paracetamol Challenge”, Infarmed has published a set of recommendations on its Facebook and LinkedIn social media platforms about the correct use of medications containing paracetamol.
Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, the Minister of Finance, was admitted to Santa Maria Hospital this morning after experiencing symptoms of a suspected stroke. Tests have ruled out a stroke, confirming he suffered a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). He will remain under medical observation in the neurology department for 24 hours.
Update: Minister's Condition and Hospital Stay The Minister of Finance, Joaquim Miranda Sarmento, is currently under observation at Santa Maria Hospital following a suspected TIA. He was admitted after feeling unwell and has missed a conference at the Bank of Fomento due to his condition.

Three elderly women, aged 80, 91, and 92, were reportedly mistreated in an illegal care home in Maia. The owner of the facility is currently facing trial for the alleged abuse, raising concerns about the safety and treatment of vulnerable patients in such establishments.

The union has accused ULS Alto Ave of imposing additional work on health centres, leading to a strike that will continue until 30 June unless negotiations occur. The union emphasizes the need for a change in the administration's approach to resolve the ongoing issues.

The Ministry of Health has announced an urgent assessment of patients on the waiting list for heart surgery, following reports of deaths potentially linked to delays in care. The situation is being treated as a priority, with a focus on ensuring patient safety and addressing the healthcare system's responsiveness.

In the past three years, ten patients have tragically died while awaiting heart surgery at Santo António Hospital in Porto, raising serious concerns about the efficiency and safety of the public healthcare system.

The socialist leader Carneiro expresses frustration over the lack of response from Montenegro regarding five critical letters he sent, which included proposals on health, housing, defense, justice, and storm damage mitigation. He emphasizes that while patience is important, it has its limits, indicating a growing urgency for action on these pressing issues.

The old Cerco School, previously inaccessible due to drug-related issues, is being repurposed into a local health unit, marking a significant shift towards improving community health and safety.

The recent addition of 31,000 votes from consulates and parishes has brought the total number of votes to over 3.5 million. Among these, 12,000 votes were specifically delayed due to adverse weather conditions, highlighting the impact of environmental factors on the voting process for expatriates during the presidential election.

Braga Hospital has denied allegations of medication shortages for cancer patients, stating that the situation is due to careful management of medication quantities. Despite complaints from patients undergoing chemotherapy about not receiving necessary medications, the hospital insists there is no shortage and that patients have been referred to community pharmacies for their needs. The Health Users Commission of Braga is demanding clarification and has plans to escalate the issue to higher authorities.

A public procurement process has been launched to build the new Central Hospital of the Algarve in Parque da Cidades, adjacent to the Algarve Stadium. The competitive tender marks a major step towards expanding regional healthcare capacity and modernising medical infrastructure. Located in a strategic urban area, the project is likely to strengthen access to a wider range of medical services for local residents and the expatriate community, attract investment and create construction and long-term healthcare jobs. Key issues to monitor include the procurement timeline, budget and financing structure, service mix and potential impacts on existing facilities and regional healthcare planning.

Portugal has recorded its lowest rate of cardiovascular mortality in thirty years, marking a significant improvement in public health.

This article explores the multifaceted impact of community on various aspects of life, particularly focusing on healthcare, public safety, and the cost of living for expatriates. It analyzes how community dynamics influence individual experiences and the overall quality of life.

Since the end of January, the country has been dealing with the aftermath of consecutive storms that have caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure. In response, companies facing crises may require employees to assume different roles temporarily. However, businesses must be cautious about the implications this may have on insurance and labor laws.
