The project combines medical innovation with educational awareness. PODiaCar’s mission is twofold:

1. Promote early detection of risk factors for obesity-related diseases (T2D and CVD) using predictive tools and digital modeling to predict future health outcomes.
2. Raise awareness and foster healthy behaviors among children and families through engaging and accessible communication strategies.

The project is grounded not only in scientific rigor but also on the conviction that education and early awareness are essential for long-lasting impact.

PODiaCar was launched in late 2023 and is coordinated by the Buzzi Children’s Hospital – ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco in Milan. It involves a multidisciplinary team with partners from across Europe, specifically including organizations from:

• Italy (University of Pavia, Pavia)
• Spain (University of Granada)
• Malta (Asomi College of Science, Pembroke)
• Luxembourg (University of Applied Sciences, Differdange)

The project places children’s health at the center of community-led change and specifically targets children and families. By the end of the project, PODiaCar aims to reach over 25,000 children directly through its campaigns and educational activities.

The project’s educational campaign has been launched in kindergartens and primary schools across several European countries. Activities use interactive materials, storytelling, and classroom engagement to promote healthy habits in everyday learning environments.

The team is actively engaged in technical and clinical work, including the development of advanced digital tools:

• Advanced Screening Tool: This tool integrates clinical, nutritional, and behavioral data to identify children at risk of developing T2D and CVD.
• Personalized Digital Twin: This virtual model will help simulate and track a child’s health pathway over time, offering tailored recommendations and monitoring tools.

One of the first major successes was the creation of an animated cartoon designed to teach young children about healthy eating, physical activity, and overall wellbeing. The animated cartoon translates scientific concepts into playful, engaging messages that children can easily understand and enjoy.

The project also participated in the Trofei di Milano Cortina, a major sporting event linked to the Olympic games, providing a valuable opportunity to reach children and families in a dynamic, real-world setting.

Since its launch, PODiaCar has made significant steps toward its ambitious goals. The initial achievements include the creation and launch of the animated cartoon and the rollout of the educational campaign in kindergartens and primary schools. The development of the advanced screening tool and the Digital Twin is currently progressing.

The project’s evaluation methodology relies on the use of predictive tools and digital modelling. The personalized Digital Twin will function as a monitoring tool, helping to simulate and track a child’s health pathway over time.

The PODiaCar team warmly invites stakeholders across Europe to join the project’s mission to improve pediatric health through prevention, education, and innovation. The overall goal is to empower the next generation to grow up healthy, informed, and confident in their ability to take care of their own wellbeing.

For more information, visit the official website of the project. The project’s news can also be followed on Instagram.

L'articolo Healthy habits through storytelling: PODiaCar’s mission to reach 25,000 children proviene da Jacardi.