The pursuit of longevity has captured attention in Spain's pharmacies, driven by the appeal of Dr. Manuel de la Peña, a renowned wellness expert. This interest stood out at the recent National Nutrition Days, held at Córdoba's historic Congress Centre, where the president of the council, Jesús Aguilar, brought together more than 81,000 pharmacists.
Held at the former San Sebastián Hospital, the sessions were attended by authorities such as Adolfo Molina Rascón, the Government Delegate for the Andalusian regional government in Córdoba. Dr. de la Peña gave a lecture on lifestyle practices that promote longevity, mentioning long-lived individuals such as Jeanne Calment and María Onieva, who lived to 122 and 112 years old, respectively.
De la Peña highlighted Spain as a global benchmark in longevity, pointing to factors such as the Mediterranean diet, high-quality foods, and the efficient health system. They insisted on the importance of a positive attitude and healthy habits, highlighting examples of older people such as María Branyas and Angelina Torres. Moreover, he mentioned his own mother, who will soon turn 101 years old, enjoying good health.
Jesús Aguilar highlighted the relationship between nutrition and well-being, emphasizing the pharmacists' commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Rafael Casaño, president of the Official College of Pharmacists of Córdoba, recognized the work of professionals in promoting healthy habits.
Inspirational stories were shared, such as that of Servando Palacín, who at the age of 109 received a pacemaker and lived to be 110. Dr. De la Peña emphasized that age should not be an obstacle to medical care, promoting the integration of moderate exercise and a balanced diet.
Moreover, the emotional dimension of the patient and empathy in medical practice were emphasized, highlighting the crucial role of the pharmacist in fostering longevity. Upon concluding, de la Peña shared findings from their research, which included 355 interviews with long-lived people, revealing that supercentenarians tend to be slim, active, and healthy. It also expressed optimism about the role of technology in aging and public health.
Dr. de la Peña, a professor of cardiology and an academic, has been recognized with multiple awards, most notably his appointment as Ambassador of Health and Life by the Academy of Diplomacy of the Kingdom of Spain. Your work motivates a cultural change toward self-care and health, illuminating the path toward longevity.
