A Vancouver-based studio has made a Facebook game that aims to help people deal with the nutritional and lifestyle challenges of diabetes.

Launched today (June 14), HealthSeeker was designed by Ayogo, which makes social and mobile games.

Today’s press release describes how the game works:

HealthSeeker is a unique online experience that combines a supportive social networking environment with important information on managing diabetes. The game utilizes the player’s own Facebook friends as sources of inspiration and support along the road to better health. There are MISSIONS and ACTION STEPS to help players achieve several LIFESTYLE GOALS. The MISSIONS and ACTION STEPS that players select must be completed in order to advance in the game. The LIFESTYLE GOALS include eating healthier, achieving an optimal weight, lowering blood sugar levels and lowering cardiovascular risk factors. As ACTION STEPS are completed and players return to report their progress, they receive experience points and other awards for their achievements.

The Diabetes Hands Foundation—based in Berkeley, California—developed the free, social game in collaboration with Joslin Diabetes Center, with the backing of the drug company Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals.

You can follow Stephen Hui on Twitter at twitter.com/stephenhui.