Nutrition-related NCD Prevention Training in China

This grant focuses on capacity building related to large-scale program and policy analysis in the nutrition-related noncommunicable disease (NR-NCD) area. The primary focus of this research training and related institutional development will be on issues linked with dietary and physical activity patterns and preventing obesity and the related comorbidities. The goal will be to increase the depth and quality of research training and institutional capability related to these critical health issues. This type of training and research focus is missing in China's health sector. Our collaborators are at the major Chinese institutions that are in a position to impact program and policy changes related to NR-NCDs at the national level. UNC advisors and trainers with expertise in the fields of nutrition, economics, urban planning, anthropology, mass communications, health economics, genetics, and social medicine will help strengthen the research training related to macro policy research and implementation and related programmatic issues. We will also strengthen at the national/provincial/megacity level capability to both enhance current research monitoring dietary changes and the key policy factors impacting them and also undertake more competent randomized controlled trials of program and policy options. This proposed training focuses on this training agenda in combination with the China Center for Disease Control and Prevention. We propose two long-term predoctoral trainees and three medium-term postdoctoral trainees each year in years 1-5; four short-term trainees in years 1-2; and three short-term trainees in year 3. The short-term trainees are expected to include mature scholars, researchers, as well as staff.

Principal Investigator: Barry M. Popkin

CPC Fellow Investigator:

Funding Source: NIH FIC

Funding Period: 8/15/2011 - 7/31/2016