At the Parc Científic de Barcelona we are experts in the study of disease and the molecular bases that cause it. We work on the basis of excellence to understand the origins of pathologies and seek mechanisms to reverse them. In short, we research how to keep people physically healthy.

However, as WHO has stated, health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being. It is a fundamental human right to enjoy the highest attainable standard of health without distinction of race, religion, political ideology or economic or social status.

Last week, Idescat published its annual survey on living conditions for 2025. The results show the darker side of our society. A revealing figure: the at-risk-of-poverty or social exclusion rate (AROPE rate – Europe 2030 target) was 24.8% in 2025, 8 tenths of a percentage point higher than in 2024 (24.0%). The survey assesses objective aspects such as the ability to generate income, difficulty in making ends meet, being able to keep the house at an adequate temperature or the ability to go on holiday for one week a year. But it also reviews aspects of subjective well-being such as people’s trust in other people and overall satisfaction with their lives. Because health and well-being go hand in hand with mental and social well-being.

We may not be able to solve precarious economic situations, but we can focus on our social attitudes and prevent situations that generate unrest. It is within our reach to collaborate and weave a good network between people, to cooperate in our neighbourhood and in the community and, ultimately, to contribute to the full health of people.