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What we want

IDEFICS is a large-scale European study investigating diet, social determinants and lifestyle factors of 2 to 10 year olds. Our study focuses on the investigation of different factors influencing overweight and related disorders. We will develop new and innovative approaches for a healthier diet and physical fitness of children in Europe. We will teach parents and children and Raise their awareness for the problem of overweight and obesity in children in the whole of Europe

We will describe the status-quo of dietary and lifestyle habits of children in Europe taking into consideration regional, cultural, social, biological and gender specific aspects. We will propose guidelines for researchers and policy makers that demonstrate future ways for an effective and efficient prevention of overweight in children.

The basis is an intervention programme in kindergartens and schools, in which we will focus on examining and improving the diet of children, on increasing physical exercise and on different methods for coping with psycho-social stress.

See our Video describing the IDEFICS study here

 

Mission Statement
Vision In line with the WHO European Charter on Counteracting Obesity, we aim to promote a healthy environment for childhood and adolescent development, thus fostering a sustainable prevention of obesity and other nutrition and lifestyle related conditions.
Mission: As the researchers and staff conducting the IDEFICS study, we take responsibility for achieving sustained progress in enhancing the knowledge of health effects of a changing diet and an altered social environment and lifestyle of children. Through forward-looking research in Europe, we will develop, evaluate, and optimise effective intervention methods. Based on our results, we will provide political decision makers with the means empowering them to transfer our findings to their areas of responsibility.
Values: Our work is based on these core values:
  • We treat our research partners and all participants in our studies responsibly, and with the utmost respect
  • We regard dialogue and participation as a foundation of our studies and ongoing work
  • We strictly adhere to rigorous scientific standards
  • We actively share our methodology, results and knowledge, and thus support full transparency
  • We openly discuss our roles and contribution in the programme, using constructive dialogue to improve the effectiveness of our programme as well as the quality of our results.
  • We strive to consider diversity of lifestyles, cultural and geographical factors both in our studies and the development of intervention approaches.
  • We aim for results that make a difference and are easily transferable, thus generating a sustainable impact on our societies
Slogan ('Claim'): LEARNING HEALTHY LIVING.
Explanation of Slogan('Claim')
  • Our slogan highlights that learning is the essence of any change and development process ? be it of individuals or social systems
  • Clearly it is not only the individual that should have a (better) chance to learn and practise healthy living: we refer to the individual as well as the environmental and social setting
  • "Learning" includes the creation of conditions in which personal as well as societal changes are promoted.
  • Those having the responsibility for societal conditions and lifestyles that influence health (and particularly obesity) have the chance to learn how they can exercise their responsibility based on our results
  • Health is influenced by a range of diverse factors, not only specific mechanisms ? that is why we use the term "living".
  • We acknowledge that the IDEFICS study is a learning exercise: as researchers we are open to develop a better understanding of what "healthy living" means in our different fields of expertise



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