Geneva University Hospitals seek to improve the quality of life of the entire population, regardless of age, origin or socio-economic status. To achieve this goal and guide public health policies, the 'Health Bus' initiative of the Population-based Epidemiology Unit (UEP) has reached out to residents by regularly parking up in the heart of the city. Since 1993, it has conducted studies on the health of the Geneva people and makes visits to companies in the city.
Each year, over 1,000 Geneva residents between the ages of 20 and 74 complete a questionnaire on their health, physical activity and nutrition. Anthropometric measurements and blood work are also carried out.
The study aims to determine the influence of environmental and genetic factors on cancer and cardiovascular disease. It informs health professionals about disease risk factors in the population and their evolution over time. In total, more than 20,000 Geneva adults have participated in this study.
As part of the Global Prevention Days, the Health Bus teams up with initiatives from the HUG medical divisions to provide free screenings for melanoma, glaucoma, strokes and diabetes.