One of the Capital Region’s greatest assets also happens to be a hidden gem to many who live here. Pennington Biomedical Research Center (PBRC) isn’t just another office building on Perkins Road—it’s a world-renowned leader at the forefront of medical discoveries related to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia—and it’s in our backyard.
From its 222-acre campus in the heart of Baton Rouge, Pennington Biomedical’s expert scientists conduct basic, clinical, and population science research dedicated to improving human health throughout the lifespan, with the ultimate goal of solving the obesity epidemic by 2040. Pennington Biomedical scientists rank among the most cited researchers in the world, and their work builds strategies to enable Louisiana residents to live longer, healthier lives.
“Pennington Biomedical is not only the world’s largest research center in nutrition and obesity, it is also recognized internationally as a center of excellence for the translation of basic science to population implementation,” says Eric Ravussin, PhD, Associate Executive Director for Clinical Science.
Through these centers, Pennington Biomedical conducts leading-edge research trials that aim to discover new ways to prevent, detect, or treat disease, deepening our understanding of the ways that our environment, genes, diet, and lifestyle impact human health. From how varying diets and physical fitness regimens affect people of different backgrounds, to the long-term health effects of COVID-19, to learning how age-related dementia and Alzheimer’s occur, Pennington’s network of researchers and public health advocates provide hope for a healthier tomorrow to those suffering from or at risk of disease.
“Our cutting-edge research has helped thousands of people live longer, healthier lives,” says Jennifer Rood, PhD, Associate Executive Director for Cores and Resources.
In addition to various outreach programs, Pennington Biomedical offers a robust online database of community health resources. You can find hundreds of free tools and teaching resources, from recipes developed in Pennington Biomedical’s metabolic kitchen, to a weight loss predictor calculator, to an extensive catalog of videos, virtual courses, and presentations designed for instruction. The center aims to raise awareness and shift public perception of obesity as a disease—dispelling myths and arming individuals and communities with evidence-based research and the resources necessary to lead healthy lives.
“Pennington is a special place,” says Peter Katzmarzyk, PhD, Associate Executive Director for Population and Public Health Sciences. “A place where scientists come together to solve the most pressing health problems facing Louisiana and its citizens.”
To learn more, go to pbrc.edu.
Sponsored by Pennington Biomedical Research Center
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