Urban ACTion for Cancer Prevention
UcanACT is an Erasmus+ co-funded project that promotes physical activity among adults and seniors for cancer prevention in public urban green spaces. By uniting physiotherapists, local authorities, non-profits, and educational institutions, UcanAct highlights both the health and economic benefits of cancer prevention, particularly in the post-COVID economic climate.
Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining health and preventing diseases, including cancer. Recognising this, UcanACT brings together a diverse group of partners to make exercise more accessible and enjoyable for adults and seniors. By utilising public urban green spaces, we aim to create inviting environments where physical activity becomes a natural and integral part of daily life.
The idea behind UcanACT is rooted in the understanding that prevention (primary, secondary & tertiary) is key to improving health outcomes and managing healthcare costs. This is especially important in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has highlighted the need for resilient and cost-effective health strategies. With funding from the Erasmus+ programme, UcanACT harnesses the strengths and resources of its partners to develop practical and sustainable solutions for cancer prevention.
UcanACT focuses on several important goals:
- Promoting Physical Activity: We aim to encourage adults and seniors to make use of public urban green spaces for regular physical activity, recognising the role of exercise in preventing cancer.
- Developing New Methods: Our team is creating a New Practical Intervention Methodology for PA exercises, specifically designed for cancer prevention. This methodology will be available in English, Italian, and German.
- Educational Resources: We will offer an online educational course for physiotherapists and health professionals, alongside the UcanACT App for adult and senior citizens. These resources will provide practical guidance and support for incorporating PA into daily routines.
- Pilot Actions: We plan to implement at least 55 pilot PA actions in Bologna (Italy), Munich (Germany), and Kilkenny (Ireland). Approximately 270 adults and seniors will participate in these activities, gaining firsthand experience in cancer-preventive exercise.
- Community Engagement: UcanACT is designed to foster a sense of community and intergenerational involvement, bringing together institutions, schools, students, and families to promote healthy lifestyles and cancer prevention.
Duration
36 months (1 Jul 2022 – 30 Jun 2025)
Programme
Erasmus+ Sport
ERASMUS-SPORT-2021-SCP
Sport
Participating Countries
Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain
EU Grant
EUR 400 000
- Developing Resources: Creating an online toolbox with educational materials and resources for physiotherapists and health professionals to help promote PA and cancer prevention among adults and seniors.
- Facilitating the UcanACT App: Developing an app to provide practical PA guidance, making it easier for adults and seniors to integrate exercise into their daily lives.
- Coordinating Pilot Actions: Organising pilot PA actions in Bologna, Munich, and Kilkenny to ensure the effective implementation of strategies and maximise participant reach.
UcanACT is inspired by the personal experience of Petra Thaller, founder of OAC, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2015. Her active lifestyle during treatment played a significant role in her recovery, leading her to establish OAC and develop European initiatives to support others facing similar challenges.
By promoting the use of public urban green spaces for physical activity, UcanACT aims to create a supportive and sustainable environment for cancer prevention. The project exemplifies the impact of collaboration and community engagement in fostering healthier, more active lives for all.
Working Together to Improve Health Literacy
We select our projects carefully to ensure we are making a lasting and sustainable impact. By focusing on meaningful initiatives, we empower individuals to take charge of their own health.
