A new way to discover innovative solutions
Pro-Santé is a strategic initiative in sustainable health, led by the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQ), in partnership with Novo Nordisk Canada and Montréal InVivo, and supported by the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux and the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie.
It aims to mobilize a variety of partners from different sectors (research, health, education, urban planning, business, community organizations, decision-makers, etc.) who are not necessarily accustomed to working together, to design innovative solutions to reduce the burden of chronic diseases, starting with obesity. Pro-Santé takes a collaborative, transdisciplinary approach to fostering concrete, lasting benefits for the health of individuals and communities.
The Pro-Santé initiative is the result of a joint effort by the following organizations:
Through innovative partnerships, we can build a healthier future for Quebec.
Pro-Santé is an initiative that aims to stimulate multi-sector, multi-disciplinary collaboration in the fight against chronic diseases, starting with obesity, by funding innovative ideas proposed by companies, universities and community organizations.
The high cost of chronic diseases in Quebec
Quebec is facing a health challenge, due in large part to rising rates of chronic disease and an aging population. The majority of healthcare costs are the direct consequence of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, arthritis and dementia.
Obesity is one of the biggest risk factors for many of these chronic diseases. With nearly one in three Quebecers living with obesity, the direct and indirect costs illustrate the profound individual and societal implications of this condition.
Obesity is a complex, multifactorial chronic disease that requires a global approach involving various players at different levels to better prevent, manage and treat it. Pro-Santé aims to facilitate new ways of working together to find sustainable solutions.
Working to improve people’s lives and our economy
By encouraging innovation in health and well-being, we can improve the quality of life of Quebecers, stimulate local economies, create jobs and reduce the economic burden of chronic disease on the healthcare system. This dual focus on health and economic development ensures that the partnership not only addresses immediate health issues, but also contributes to the long-term prosperity of Quebec communities.