Combating Obesity and Metabolic Diseases through Innovative Prevention Strategies
The Shield project, a collaborative initiative between Puglia, Basilicata, and Greece, aims to strengthen the prevention of obesity and metabolic diseases from a young age. Financed by the Interreg Vi-A Greece-Italy 2021-2027 program with a total budget of 2 million 125 thousand euros, this project brings together prominent institutions, including the Polyclinic of Bari, the University and University Hospital of Ioannina, and the Local Health Authority of Matera. With scientific coordination led by Professor Antonio Moschetta, Director of the ‘Frugoni’ internal medicine operational unit of the Bari Polyclinic, the project seeks to integrate digital innovation, education, and health promotion to tackle the growing concern of obesity and related diseases.
Addressing the Need for Prevention
In regions like Puglia and Basilicata, where the incidence of overweight and obesity is significantly high, the need for effective prevention strategies is paramount. According to data, Puglia ranks as the second Italian region for the incidence of overweight individuals, while Basilicata reports 34% of its population as overweight and 12% as obese. These statistics underscore the urgency to implement comprehensive prevention measures to reduce the risk of chronic pathologies such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome. The Shield project responds to this need by introducing a prevention model that leverages digital tools, educational programs, and community engagement.
Innovative Digital Solutions for Health Promotion
A key component of the Shield project is the development of a digital platform designed to network health professionals, family doctors, specialists, and families. This platform aims to facilitate collaboration on complex clinical cases and provide support to young individuals and parents in adopting healthy lifestyles. Furthermore, the project includes the creation of an educational video game, known as the Shield Edugame, which translates the principles of the Mediterranean diet and prevention into an interactive experience. By harnessing the potential of digital innovation, the project seeks to reach a wider audience, particularly younger people, and promote healthy habits from an early age.
Collaboration and Funding
The Shield project is made possible through the collaboration of several institutions and the financial support of the Interreg Vi-A Greece-Italy 2021-2027 program. With a total budget of 2 million 125 thousand euros, of which one million 593 thousand euros are from European funds, this initiative demonstrates a significant investment in the health and well-being of the regions involved. The project’s success will depend on the effective coordination and commitment of its partners, including the Polyclinic of Bari, the University and University Hospital of Ioannina, the General Hospital of Corfu, the Local Health Authority of Matera, and the Social Welfare Center of the Epirus Region.