ARS Human Nutrition National Program (107)

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National Programs Human Nutrition

Human nutrition science has moved from a focus on the prevention of nutrient deficiencies to an emphasis on health-maintenance and reduced risks of chronic diseases. Scientific research has demonstrated that what and how much we eat profoundly affects growth, development, and aging, and the ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Among those diseases that are linked strongly to diet, the cost for treatment and care exceeds $200 billion per year. Dietary intake is linked to risks for development of a variety of common, chronic diseases. The annual economic impact of cardiovascular disease in the U.S. exceeds $80 billion, obesity $86 billion, osteoporosis $10 billion for care alone, cancer $104 billion, and cataracts $4 billion. The American Cancer Society estimated in 1996 that one-third of the 500,000 cancer deaths annually in the USA are due to dietary factors.

Changing population dynamics, life style habits, food technologies, animal and crop production capabilities, and the globalization of the market for foods, all demand revisions in targeting food production, distribution, and marketing strategies to assure optimization of health through nutrition. Nutrition research design and capabilities are increasingly needed to address the changing dynamics and needs of the populations to be fed, and the dynamics of the food supply.

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is an ideal location for human nutrition research because of the proximity to research on basic agriculture. Human nutrition research within ARS is targeted towards health, quality of life, prevention of chronic diseases, and promotion of a nutritious supply of food. ARS has the resources, including appropriate physical facilities, state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, and scientific expertise and experience to address and make significant contributions to improving human nutrition for optimal health.

Projects in this Program - by State

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Maroon = click to see related projects in these states.
Gray = No related research in this state.