The Role of Lifestyle Medicine in Family Medicine: Structured Debate and Vision-Building.
Rosália PÁSCOA, Tehila MAZAL, Gokce ISCAN, Joaquim SEMIDE PINTO and Susana SILVA
Lifestyle Medicine (LM) has emerged as a key response to the growing burden of non-communicable diseases and the need for prevention-focused, person-centred healthcare. Its emphasis on behavioural and environmental determinants of health aligns with the core principles of Family Medicine (FM). However, the role of LM within FM remains a contested issue. Questions persist as to whether LM should be considered an intrinsic component of FM practice, a formally recognised competency across medical specialties, or a transversal field linking clinical care, public health, and community action. Across Europe, variation in training structures, healthcare systems, and service delivery models reinforces the need for a shared strategic vision regarding LM integration in FM.• Critically reflect on the current and potential role of LM within FM. • Identify key perceptions, barriers, opportunities, and risks related to the integration of LM into routine FM practice. • Compare and appraise different models for positioning LM, including core discipline, accredited competency, and cross-sector approach. • Contribute to the development of preliminary recommendations to support professional training, service organisation, and policy development.The workshop will adopt an interactive approach, combining brief expert input with facilitated small-group work and plenary discussion. A structured SWOT analysis will support reflection and peer exchange, while moderated debate will foster synthesis and consensus. Workshop schedule: 10 minutes: Overview of scientific evidence for LM and its organisational and educational context within FM. 20 minutes: Small-group work – SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to LM integration in FM). 20 minutes: Plenary debate and discussion. 10 minutes: Collective summary of key insights and drafting of preliminary consensus.Participants will gain clearer insight into the positioning of LM within FM, increased awareness of implementation challenges and enablers, and a shared understanding of future strategic options. The workshop will produce initial, practice-informed recommendations to inform education, service organisation, and policy discussions.This workshop seeks to align perspectives, stimulate constructive dialogue, and contribute to the development of a coherent and forward-looking strategic vision for the integration of LM within FM.
