Medavie Health Foundation is partnering with Toronto Rehab Foundation to support ACCELERATION (ACtivity, smoking Cessation, healthy Eating, and aLcohol intERvention & motivATION), an evidence-based, e-health solution that will provide at-risk Canadians with the tools to take control of their health prevention needs and reduce their risk of developing chronic disease, including type 2 diabetes. Led by Dr. Paul Oh, a leading expert on the role of exercise in rehabilitation, the four-year $750,000 initiative builds on the initial $75,000 investment provided by Medavie Blue Cross in support of the 2013-2016 ACCELERATION chronic disease and lifestyle research study.

ACCELERATION 2.0 is founded on the pan-Canadian clinical research study that addressed health behaviours known to contribute to 70% of all chronic diseases: physical inactivity, smoking, inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables, and alcohol in excess. Knowing that a growing number of Canadians are seeking fast and convenient ways to access the necessary health information and support required to prevent and/or manage health problems, it will use virtual exchange, including online coaching, to address access barriers and help bridge the gap in health disparities in supporting participants to achieve healthy behaviour changes.

ACCELERATION 2.0 was launched this morning with partner representatives and stakeholders in attendance.

Quick Facts

• With a program satisfaction rate of 90%, ACCELERATION graduates (2013-2016), on average, increased their life expectancy by 1.25 years, and 80% lowered their risk of developing cardiovascular disease in the next 10 years.
• ACCELERATION graduates also increased physical activity (150 minutes of moderate to vigorous), nutrition levels (5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day), and smoking cessation.
• Chronic diseases and conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, heart disease, stroke, cancer, and arthritis are among the most common, costly, and preventable of all health problems.
• The dynamic combination of e-care and health coaching has proven effective in increasing access to tailored health plans on-demand, widespread dissemination, and immediate updating of education.