Applications will be reviewed by a scientific evaluation committee consisting of experts from both the scientific and clinical settings. Projects must involve a clinical component and an evaluative research component. Priority will be given to projects that are already operational, ready to be implemented or in the process of being implemented. The preferred areas of focus will be: cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, diabetes, chronic pain, smoking cessation, diet and physical activity. The Quebec Population Health Research Network, which is supported by the FRSQ, will offer support to the researchers whose projects are selected. The maximum amount awarded for any one grant will be $700,000 for two years.

Chronic diseases in Quebec:

- In Quebec, 1 million people have hypertension, and more than 330,000 have a cardiovascular disease or diabetes. - In Quebec, cardiovascular diseases were the leading cause of hospitalization in 2004-2005. - Asthma affects 13% of children aged 4 to 11 years, and in 2005, 2.8% of Quebecers reported that they had COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). - In 2005, 14.1% of Quebecers aged 12 years and older reported that they suffered from arthritis and other types of joint pain.

Source: FONDS DE LA RECHERCHE EN SANTE DU QUEBEC