Professor Sue Lanham-New: Championing Nutrition for Better Bone Health
Professor Sue Lanham-New from the University of Surrey has been making significant strides in the field of human nutrition since joining the Scientific Advisory Committee for Nutrition (SACN) in June 2010. Her influential research primarily focuses on the connection between diet, especially vitamin D, and bone health.
A Passion for Nutrition
With a distinguished academic background, Professor Lanham-New was motivated to contribute to SACN due to its esteemed reputation for thorough and evidence-based recommendations. As a doctoral student, she often consulted the suggestions from SACN’s predecessor, the Committee on Medical Aspects of Food and Nutrition Policy (COMA), which she regarded as an invaluable resource. This inspiration led her to apply for the committee, where she hoped to utilise her critical thinking skills and passion for nutrition to enhance public health guidelines.
Redefining Vitamin D Intake in the UK
One of her notable achievements has been as part of the Vitamin D working group within SACN, where she played a vital role in establishing new guidelines for vitamin D consumption. This initiative has been widely recognised and has helped put a spotlight on vitamin D, which previously lacked a specific reference nutrient intake. Professor Lanham-New feels a deep sense of accomplishment in aiding public health initiatives through these recommendations.
Commitment to Evidence-Based Research
Reflecting on her extensive experience with SACN, she describes her role as a blend of being both a critical ally and an independent voice among her peers. She is committed to ensuring that all outcomes from SACN are thoroughly considered and firmly grounded in scientific evidence. Professor Lanham-New encourages fellow researchers to leverage SACN’s findings for future research endeavours, highlighting the committee’s role in identifying and addressing key gaps in knowledge.
A Collaborative Approach
Professor Lanham-New places high value on teamwork and collaborative learning throughout her tenure with SACN. She appreciates the opportunities to work with Chief Scientific Advisers and colleagues from various advisory groups, which have broadened her exposure to diverse topics beyond her specialisation. Her gratitude extends to the SACN secretariat, which she praises for its exceptional support and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the committee’s smooth operation.
Encouragement for Future Academics
For those aiming to break into advisory roles, Professor Lanham-New advises observing committee meetings to gain insight into their functions. She emphasizes the importance of engaging with various committees, including scientific and parliamentary ones, and underscores that “the door won’t open if you don’t knock on it.” Reflecting on her journey, she believes joining a government science advisory body is a privilege, allowing professionals to use their expertise to influence meaningful policy changes.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/professor-sue-lanham-new-department-of-health-and-social-care
