2024 in review: The Finnish Association for the Study of Obesity (FASO)
Report written by Johanna Matilainen
Highlights from The Finnish Association for the Study of Obesity (FASO) in 2024
Our mission is to promote obesity research in Finland. One of our biggest achievements in 2024 was the Nordic Obesity Meeting (NOM24), a collaborative effort with the Finnish Association for Obesity Medicine. This meeting not only brought together leading experts but also initiated steps to improve patient representation in our society’s activities and kick-started the unique Nordic Obesity Network.
Nordic Obesity Meeting 2024
Bringing together the brightest minds from the Nordics and around the world for an unforgettable obesity meeting!
With world-class speakers, rising future stars, and engaging sessions, we explored the latest advancements and emerging trends in obesity research in Helsinki from 1 - 3 February 2024.
We received 67 abstract submissions, from which six were selected for oral presentations. Our poster sessions showcased the work of 53 researchers.
With 270 participants, we delved into the multifaceted aspects of obesity research, treatment, and prevention.
The meeting also featured a strong patient perspective, with social media influencer Veera Bianca and Ulla Brandt, chair of the LILE Association, sharing their personal experiences.
Advocacy and Partnerships
Following NOM24, FASO recognized the importance of amplifying the voices of individuals living with obesity in Finland. To integrate their perspectives more into societal discussions and our society’s activities, we have invited individuals with obesity experience to join our board. This aims to incorporate the patient perspective more prominently in our events, enhance collaboration between researchers and patients, and ultimately influence policy-making in Finland. The FibroHealth symposium 2024, held on 26 November in Oulu in collaboration with the Finnish Pharmacological Society, will feature Ulla Brandt as our patient representative.
NOM24 also initiated the creation of Nordic Obesity Network (NASO), a collaborative entity with the Nordic Associations for the Study of Obesity of Norway, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland. This network aims to create a structured educational program on obesity, equipping physicians and eventually other healthcare professionals with specialized skills and knowledge for advanced obesity care. NASO also serves as a platform for joint research initiatives, registry studies, clinical trials, and advocacy for improved policies and addressing societal stigma surrounding obesity.
FibroHealth symposium 2024 - exploring cutting-edge research and therapeutic advancements in obesity treatment
Our successful year culminated in the FibroHealth 2024 symposium, organized by the University of Oulu Fibrobesity Research Programme, FASO, and the Finnish Pharmacological society.
With 156 participants, we explored current therapeutic options and the development of new strategies against obesity.
Future Aspirations
Our successful collaborations will continue in 2025 with the Circadian Rhythms and Obesity: A Timely Approach to Health Spring Seminar on 3 April 2025 in Helsinki, co-organized with the Folkhälsan Research Center.
In 2025, we will particularly focus on supporting young researchers and further amplifying the voices of individuals living with obesity in Finland.