The scientists involved are investigating how understanding people's biological age can contribute to healthier behaviour and ultimately a healthier society.
BIO-COMPaSS (BIOlogical age-driven, COMmunal, Personalised System for Sustainable health promotion) aims to motivate people to adopt a healthier lifestyle by making them aware of their biological age - a measure that often says more about health than the number of calendar years. The project focuses on developing personalised exercise and nutrition programmes that actually get people moving. The close collaboration between citizens, scientists and companies is unique. The sum involved is €6.8 million.
According to pen leader, professor of molecular and translational exercise physiology, Richard Jaspers of VU Amsterdam, the strength of the project lies in its broad social commitment. "We bring science, practice and policy together. The potential for this to structurally improve public health is enormous," Jaspers said.
The project aims to reduce the biological age of participants by an average of five years. This can lead not only to a better quality of life, but also to significant savings in healthcare costs and a reduction in health disparities between population groups.
The social impact of BIO-COMPaSS is significant. By actively involving citizens and using science-based biomarkers, it works towards sustainable health promotion. The approach offers the prospect of a future in which prevention and personal health play a central role in the healthcare system.
Besides Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Maastricht University, Wageningen University & Research and the University Medical Centre Groningen are also involved. The project is an example of how multidisciplinary cooperation and innovation can go hand in hand with social relevance. For more information about this consortium and all parties involved: read on.