Health and place perceptions: an educative experience combining poetry and One Health perspective in teenagers from urban vulnerable communities of Brazil

Abstract

In urban contexts, neighbourhoods are fundamental elements. When socioeconomic, environmental and structural conditions are not suitable, some neighbourhoods become vulnerable (VC). In Brazil, 11 million people live in VC, with 40% of children and teenagers beneath the poverty line. In relation to health issues, they need to be addressed in a trans-disciplinary manner, as proposed by the One Health (OH) perspective. Using artistic language helps to communicate emotions and perceptions, and poetry has been used as a means of supporting knowledge construction. This manuscript aims to introduce and discuss the approach of OH for teenagers of two VC, through the participant’s perception and the use of poetic language. Questionnaires about Health and Place were applied, and a poetry-based communication product was built. A common concern about environmental and social issues was reflected. The introduction of OH perspective brought new words to the discussion of health. Poetry allowed students to speak freely about topics that become more difficult in other contexts. These studies help to better understand health issues for teenagers, becoming important sources to develop strategies that tend to mitigate health risks. We hope this experience contributes to its replication in other areas of the world.