iA Financial Group has committed $200,000 to the Fondation IUCPQ to fund a research project examining comprehensive approaches to obesity treatment.
The donation will support the HARMONY research project at the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec – Université Laval. The study will compare a holistic treatment model that combines medical intervention, nutritional guidance, and physical activity with standard obesity care.
The funding targets what researchers describe as a significant and growing health concern. According to the announcement, obesity affects one in three Canadian adults, representing 33% of the population.
“Obesity is a complex chronic disease,” the announcement stated, noting that its effects extend to physical and mental health, workplace absenteeism, disability, and rising health-care costs.
Francis Morin, executive director of Fondation IUCPQ, said the contribution would help advance research and improve obesity management practices.
“With this substantial funding, the HARMONY project will be able to deliver insights that will create lasting change in care pathways, improve overall health, and shape the future of clinical practice,” Morin said.
The HARMONY project is led by Dr. Marie-Philippe Morin, Dr. Fannie Lajeunesse-Trempe, and Dr. Andréanne Michaud. The multidisciplinary team includes physicians, kinesiologists, and nutritionists.
Researchers will assess the effectiveness and safety of holistic obesity care compared with standard treatment. The study aims to optimize care pathways, promote cardiometabolic health, preserve muscle mass, and support mental health among participants.
Louis-Philippe Pouliot, executive vice-president of Group Benefits and Retirement Solutions at iA Financial Group, said the partnership aligns with the company’s focus on the wellbeing of Canadians.
“Supporting cutting-edge research and health innovation is at the heart of our ambition to be present and active in the lives of Canadians to support their financial, physical, social and mental wellbeing,” Pouliot said.
A survey commissioned by iA Financial Group found that 55% of respondents wanted their group insurance plans to include specific services for obesity and overweight treatment.
“We believe that a comprehensive approach that combines prevention, support, and treatment is the key to lasting results and a better quality of life,” Pouliot said.
The company said the research findings would help inform future group insurance offerings.
