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iA Financial Group supports the IUCPQ Foundation to transform obesity management

Close-up January 22, 2026
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iA Financial Group announces a $200,000 donation to the IUCPQ Foundation (University Institute of Cardiology and Pulmonology of Quebec – Laval University) to support the launch of the HARMONY research project, which aims to transform obesity management by combining medical treatment, nutritional guidance and customized physical activity.

 


Obesity: a major public health challenge

 

Obesity, which affects one in three adults,¹ poses a major public health and total wellbeing challenge. Obesity has far-reaching effects: physical and mental health issues, absenteeism, disability, lost productivity and rising costs for the healthcare system.

 

At the same time, according to a survey conducted on behalf of iA Financial Group, 55% of respondents want their group insurance plan to include specific services for the treatment of obesity and overweight,² highlighting the importance of offering solutions that meet real needs.

 

The HARMONY project, led by a multidisciplinary team at the University Institute of Cardiology and Pulmonology of Quebec – Laval University, seeks to assess how a holistic approach to obesity care compares to standard treatment in terms of safety and effectiveness. The objectives are to optimize participant’s care pathways, promote cardiometabolic health, preserve muscle mass and support mental health.

 

“iA Financial Group’s commitment to the IUCPQ Foundation is a powerful catalyst for advancing research and transforming the way obesity is managed,” said Francis Morin, Executive Director of the IUCPQ Foundation.

 

“Supporting health research and innovation is at the heart of our ambition. We believe that a comprehensive approach combining prevention, support and treatment is the key to lasting results,” stated Louis-Philippe Pouliot, Executive Vice-President, Group Benefits and Retirement Solutions, iA Financial Group.

 

This partnership underscores philanthropy’s pivotal role in driving health innovation and transformation, creating knowledge that will shape clinical practices and enhance people’s quality of life for years to come.

 

Read the communiqué that will be sent to group insurance plan administrators on January 26, 2026.

See the French version of this communiqué.

 


Additional resources

 

 

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¹ Statistics Canada (2025). The prevalence of overweight and obesity is on the rise in Canada.

2 Léger and iA Financial Group (2025).  Perceptions and motivations regarding the role of group insurance in the management of obesity and overweight (omnibus survey).

 

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