Chris Radlicz, M.S., M.P.H, a former pre-doctoral fellow at the UAB Nutrition Obesity Research Center, has been selected as one of ASN’s 2018-2019 Science Policy Fellows. His term will begin on April 1, 2018, and last for one year.

Radlicz is one of only two fellows to receive the prestigious fellowship from the American Society for Nutrition. The Science Policy Fellowship provides recipients with the opportunity to gain an enhanced perspective on public policy issues related to nutrition and facilitates the acquisition of skills and tools necessary to become well-informed advocates for nutrition research and policy.

“As a fellow, I look forward to working as an ex-official member of the ASN’s Public Policy Committee. I will be preparing comments on pending regulations and producing educational materials addressing the ASN’s priorities for policymakers, such as those outlined in the Farm Bill Priorities,” said Radlicz.

Radlicz, now a medical student, is interested in how long-term care will address the increasing proportion of aging individuals, particularly those with obesity and comorbidities. His current research is investigating obesity as a predictor of admission into long-term care facilities and variables which impact these decisions. He is also continuing to review the literature on aspects of nutrition and aging including common truths and misconceptions.

“We are on the precipice of a long-term care scenario with obesity rates at an all-time high, and the youngest of the baby boomer generation turning 65 by the year 2029,” said Radlicz. “This will require innovative ways to care for this unique aging population.”

Radlicz continues to be a weekly contributor to Obesity and Energetics Offerings. He has also been a blogger for the American Society for Nutrition for the past two years. Some of his posts can be found here.

The UAB NORC, one of only 12 in the nation, fosters a multidisciplinary approach to research examining the biological, behavioral and environmental bases for nutrition/obesity-related disorders, the consequences of these disorders and methods for treatment and prevention.