Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also known as chronic diseases, are diseases that are not transmissible from one person to another, such as cardiovascular diseases,

diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases. NCDs are the result of unhealthy lifestyles, e.g. tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets and use of alcohol, leading to metabolic and physiological changes. In European countries, NCDs are responsible for an enormous part of the burden that public health systems in the Member States are facing. The increasing rates of deaths related to NCDs in Europe are concerning, but although running rampant, the complex health issues caused by NCDs can be tackled, if we improve prevention measures and promote health.Healthy diets are a key aspect of our lifestyle, and can help tackling the rise of NCDs. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is essential for our overall health, and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses.

The Preventia project aims to decrease the spreading of NCDs across the EU, while reducing health inequalities and fostering cooperation and exchanges between the EU Member States.

The Preventia project is coordinated by Safe Food Advocacy Europe, in cooperation with a consortium of partners from across Europe, including the Consumer Education and Information Center (Croatia), the Lithuanian Consumer Institute (Lithuania), the Union for Working Consumers of Greece (Greece), the Consumers Defense Union (Italy), Amici Obesi (Italy) and Promote Ukraine (Belgium).

 The project kick-off meeting took place in Brussels on the 15th of February 2024, and the active participation of all consortium members allowed to establish a fruitful cooperation. While the majority of the activities will be carried out in 2025 and 2026, the project partners have began the preparatory work for the upcoming events and trainings. Partners have so far kicked-off the work related to the preparation of trainings for schools in disadvantaged areas, workshops for NGOs and Ukrainian health professionals, culinary events with migrants and Ukrainians under temporary protection and the development of a mobile application to make healthier food choices.

All the project activities focus on raising awareness regarding NCDs prevention, highlighting the importance of healthy diets and targeting vulnerable groups, particularly Ukrainians and socio-economically disadvantaged children.

For more information on the project and its progress click here.

Yoy may find Preventia project press release here.