The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the new Agricultural Science Center of Excellence for Nutrition and Diet for Better Health. The virtual center is part of President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot effort to end cancer as we know it.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The virtual center will connect existing resources, including people and programs, to leverage expertise and increase coordination and cooperation.” USDA is enhancing its research focus on precision nutrition science to better understand the needs of underserved communities. The research complements efforts to advance food and nutrition security – which means consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe and affordable foods essential to optimal health and well-being, according to USDA.
The World Cancer Research Fund claims 30-50 percent of all cancer cases are preventable by following a healthy diet and lifestyle. As part of the announcement, USDA convened a panel of experts that discussed nutrition’s role in improving overall health and reducing risks for diet-related chronic diseases.
