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Tackling micronutrient malnutrition and hidden hunger to improve health in the EU

Descrizione del progetto

Approcci per eliminare la «fame nascosta» in Europa

La carenza di micronutrienti affligge la società europea, mettendo a rischio lo sviluppo umano e la salute a causa di un apporto inadeguato di minerali e vitamine. I gruppi demografici vulnerabili, che costituiscono circa il 70% della popolazione e comprendono bambini, donne incinte, anziani e soggetti emarginati, sono particolarmente a rischio in tal senso. La mancanza di dati completi sulla diffusione di questo tipo di carenza ostacola l’implementazione di interventi efficaci, lasciando nel limbo i dibattiti sul soddisfacimento dei bisogni alimentari. In questo contesto, il progetto Zero_HiddenHunger_EU, finanziato dall’UE, si propone di valutare questa diffusione, di analizzare i costi sanitari associati e di elaborare soluzioni personalizzate e sostenibili per eliminare la «fame nascosta» in tutta Europa. Sfruttando tecniche avanzate e i dati esistenti, tra cui le biobanche, il progetto si prefigge di identificare le popolazioni ad alto rischio e di sviluppare strategie efficaci.

Obiettivo

Micronutrient (MN) deficiency is a form of malnutrition that occurs due to low intake and/or absorption of minerals and vitamins, with adverse consequences for human development and health. Children, adolescents, women of reproductive age (including pregnancy) and older adults (representing ~70% of European society) as well as immigrant/ethnic minority groups and those affected by social inequality or poverty, are at risk of MN deficiencies. While addressing this public health problem is a priority, it is not possible until data on the prevalence of MN deficiencies across the EU population and the causes for these deficiencies is available to predict and identify those most at risk. Without this information, discussions on how to meet dietary requirements for the priority MNs of public health concern, and improve their status, take place in a vacuum. The Zero_HiddenHunger_EU project aims to 1) provide estimates of the true prevalence of MN deficiencies, based on priority biomarker and MN intake data in European populations and their associated health costs, focused on high-risk population subgroups, and 2) provide the best possible evidence to develop context-specific, tailored food-focused solutions to ensure adequate supply of vitamins and minerals from diets from sustainable sources. The consortium will focus the research effort around existing high-quality data resources and biobanks from diverse and representative population groups around Europe, supplemented by targeted studies in under-represented groups, maximizing research investment and adding value. Using high-throughput biomarker and advanced data analytical and modelling techniques, Zero_HiddenHunger_EU will deliver credible evidence enabling policymakers and food system actors to deliver food-focused strategies to eradicate MN deficiencies from Europe.

Parole chiave

Coordinatore

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE CORK - NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF IRELAND, CORK
Contribution nette de l'UE
€ 2 487 952,50
Indirizzo
WESTERN ROAD
T12 YN60 Cork
Irlanda

Mostra sulla mappa

Regione
Ireland Southern South-East
Tipo di attività
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Collegamenti
Costo totale
€ 2 487 952,50

Partecipanti (14)

Partner (4)