Yasuhiko WADA, Professor
1. Current Courses
Foundations of Health and Nutritional Science
Public Health
Medical Statistics
Health Informatics Practicum
Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine
Theory of Caregiving
Dietary Care Practicum
Environmental Health Practicum
Community Healthcare
Community Health
Graduate Research
2. Research Area
Public Health, Epidemiology, Environmental Health, Industrial Health
3. Research Topics
・Epidemiology of lifestyle and age-related diseases
・Application of hard and crunchy foods to oral care
・Social support systems for patients with Wolfram syndrome
・Risk assessment of radioactive materials and UV irradiation
・Mechanisms of retarding aging through calorie restriction
・Safety in medical services
4. Research Summary
Using cohort or cross-sectional design and other experimental methods, we are working to detect and assess various health risks related to dietary habits, occupational activities, and medical procedures.
5. Research Description
･ We have proven that crunchy foods are effective in reducing dental plaque and preventing oral pH reduction after rinsing with a sugar solution.
･ Using a market basket method, as well as examining uneaten meals, we assessed internal exposure of adult residents in Fukushima Prefecture to radioactive cesium through food intake, 4-months after the nuclear accident. Levels of exposure to 134 Cs and 137 Cs by ingestion were discernible, but generally within recommended standards.
･ Hygienic effects of UV irradiation was assessed using ATP swab test in a large, institutional kitchen. There was no significant difference in hygienic conditions when comparing the use and non-use of over-night UV irradiation.
･ The prevalence of Wolfram syndrome in Japan was assessed via questionnaires distributed to medical doctors. It became evident that at least a hundred of such patients exist in this country. Through interviews with patients and their families, it was revealed that the present information-sharing practices between medical stuff and social support services was totally insufficient.
･ A survey on old medical records on microfilms revealed the possibility of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission via an albumin preparation.
