Bond University has stamped its global credentials in the field of cancer and nutrition research with the election of a recently appointed professor as chair of a prestigious international nutrition and cancer study group.
Bond's Professor Liz Isenring takes over the chair of the international Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) Nutrition and Cachexia Study Group which specialises in supportive care for people with cancer.
Professor Isenring has recently been appointed as program lead for the Master of Nutrition and Dietetics Practice in Bond University's Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine.
She is the first Australian dietitian to be appointed to chair the group and will hold the post for the next three years.
One of her first tasks as head of the MASCC Nutrition and Cachexia group will be to chair a workshop on Integrated Care Pathways for patients with cancer at the International MASCC symposium this June in Miami, Florida.
“I believe the greatest impact one can have in terms of improving the nutritional care for patients and their families is via research and helping to translate this evidence into improved patient services and outcomes,” she said. “With cancer now the biggest killer in Australia and up to 40% of all cancers being related to poor diet and lifestyle, this work is more important than ever.”
"The MASCC symposium in Miami in June will spotlight excellent science and cutting edge research aimed at enhancing the lives of people coping with cancer."
Professor Isenring said Bond University was placing a great emphasis on this field of study with the introduction of under-graduate and post graduate courses in nutrition, biomedical science and dietetic practice.
"This will include the first extended Level 9 comprehensive Master's degree in this area in Australia," she said.
"All students will get to do an international placement which is quite unusual and the program is designed to allow as much interaction as possible with leaders in the industry such as renowned Australian cook, author and food manufacturer Maggie Beer”.
"My involvement with the international cancer study group will greatly assist in promoting this field of study, leading to improved patient outcomes and will lift Bond University's profile for its studies in this field."