Center for Physical Activity and Nutrition
The Center for Physical Activity and Nutrition (CPAN) at the University of Arizona is devoted to researching and understanding the long-term effects of physical activity and nutrition, and translating this research into effective community health and wellness programs for children, adolescents, and men and women of all ages. The modifiable lifestyle risk factors of physical activity and diet greatly influence the courses of such chronic diseases as obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, as well as several forms of cancer. Physical activity and nutrition have been identified as key areas around which to develop a strategic plan to improve the health of the nation. Past research has demonstrated the benefits of an active lifestyle and sound nutritional practices. However, individual responses to exercise and dietary programs vary widely, and there is a great need to understand the physiological, psychological and social factors that modify responses in order to tailor programs to benefit the widest possible audience. The primary goal of CPAN is to bring together basic and applied scientists, educators, practitioners, and community leaders in order to foster innovative research and translation of new discoveries into culturally-sensitive, effective programs for improving the health and well-being of people everywhere.
