Collaboration with the Medical School – University of Cyprus A’ Lakatameia Primary School Collaboration with the Medical School – University of Cyprus

Collaboration with the Medical School – University of Cyprus European research project MEDEA (Mitigating the Health Effects of Desert Dust Storms Using Exposure-Reduction Approaches Climate Change and global warming has been associated with increased frequency and severity of desert dust storm events across the Mediterranean Basin. Furthermore, desert dust storm events result in adverse effects on human health from exposure to increased levels of air pollutants (particulate matter 10 μm - PM10). The MEDEA project aims to develop the tools for early population warning of upcoming desert dust storm events and a set of evidence-based and sustainable recommendations for adoption during DDS episodes in order to reduce indoor and outdoor exposure to harmful particulate air pollution.  Primary Aims Mitigation of health effects of Desert Dust Storm events. Recommendations for exposure reduction. Demonstration studies in panels of adults with atrial fibrillation and asthmatic children. Meteorological models for early forecasting. https://www.life-medea.eu/

Interactive presentations on children's health issues for students, parents and children: First presentation: children and parents are informed about healthy eating and exercise habits Healthy breakfast prepared and offered by the Parents association

Fruit salad as a healthy snack, offered by the Parents association Encourage healthy treats Encourage pupils to bring and eat vegetables and fruits at schools

Second presentation: Respiratory health and the different methods on how to protect it from various environmental factors that may affect it, such as desert dust storms Participation in the pilot phase of the project MEDEA: completion of a respiratory health questionnaire, somatometric measurements and effectiveness evaluation of MEDEA protocols and tools.

Measurements : height, weight, body fat%, body water%

First Results: 10% of the pupils population suffers from asthma 25% of the boys and 35% of the girls population have obesity problems We have informed the parents about the results and next year we are going to continue our efforts with many activities to encourage healthy eating and exercise