As many as 30 organizations from across Canada are forming partnerships in a $15.5-million series of initiatives designed to prevent chronic diseases. Risk factors and demographic changes are converging to pose unprecedented threats to the health system and no person, young or old, is immune to the dangers of heart disease.

Among Canadians aged 35 to 49, high blood pressure rates have increased by 127%, diabetes by 64% and obesity by 20%. The collaborative coalitions are to address issues as childhood obesity, incorporate scientific expertise, harness electronic medical report systems to increase prevention for chronic disease and address the unique needs of First Nations communities.

About two-thirds of deaths in Canada can be prevented through healthier lifestyles, non-smoking and environmental stewardship which reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Groups funding the initiative include the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The funding is the result of an open call for proposals issued by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, an independent group funded by the federal government to accelerate action on cancer control.