Leading nutrition expert aims to help women tip the scales in their favour against cancer
Photo: John Ulan
Carla Prado is one of 11 U of A researchers and one of eight WCHRI members receiving new or renewed Canada Research Chairs.
Losing muscle mass is a common risk when battling cancer, but it can be extra challenging for women dealing with breast or gynecological cancers.
Physiological hurdles for women, such as hormonal shifts during menopause and the side-effects of certain cancer treatments, can worsen muscle loss and disrupt how the body uses energy.
Poor muscle mass is proven to pose a higher risk of health complications and even death in people with cancer, so it’s crucial for women to tip the scales in their favour through a strategic diet, says Prado, a University of Alberta nutrition researcher.
“It’s important that they get the right amount of energy and protein they need to stay healthy, and we need to fill a critical gap in cancer care, offering tailored interventions that improve muscle health and overall well-being,” says Prado, a professor in the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences.
Now, women grappling with these types of cancer will be able to get more personalized nutrition advice, through Prado’s work as a new Tier 1 Canada Research Chair (CRC).
A Tier 1 Canada Research Chair runs for seven years and can be renewed once. Recipients receive $200,000 per year for their research programs.
