BACKGROUND-AIM:
The increasing use of tobacco, e-cigarettes and emerging nicotine products among young people is a major public health concern, often driven by social normalization and misinformation. Respira Sapienza… at school aims to prevent early initiation of smoking and vaping by promoting scientific literacy, environmental awareness and active citizenship through a whole-school approach.

METHODS:
The program adopts an interdisciplinary One Health-based approach combining scientific education, peer-to-peer learning and experiential activities. Educational modules include lectures, laboratory experiments (toxicology, respiratory physiology, environmental impact), storytelling for younger students and creative contests. The initiative involves students, teachers, families and school staff. Monitoring is conducted through questionnaires, feedback tools and participation indicators, with university students acting as trained peer educators.

RESULTS:
Preliminary findings indicate participation of more than ten schools, involving approximately 150 primary, 500 lower secondary and 300 upper secondary students, with total outreach expected to exceed 1000 students, including families and teachers. High engagement has been observed through participatory activities, contests and community questionnaires, contributing to increased awareness and critical thinking on smoking, vaping and environmental health.

CONCLUSIONS:
Respira Sapienza… at school represents a scalable and sustainable model of school-based tobacco prevention. By integrating scientific evidence, community engagement and peer education, it strengthens health literacy and promotes informed and responsible behaviors, with potential for broader implementation. Primary school vaping prevention