Scientific Rationale
Musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiometabolic disorders are primary drivers of disability. Rehabilitative management relies on interventions such as exercise, physical modalities, and nutritional support. However, these systems are interconnected. It remains unclear how behavioral factors, diet, and metabolic status interact to influence disease onset and progression. Current research often studies these factors in isolation. We need to analyze large datasets to identify biological pathways linking lifestyle and metabolic health to clinical outcomes. This knowledge is crucial for defining precise intervention targets and optimizing rehabilitation strategies.
Research Questions
How do behavioral factors, nutritional intake, and metabolic status interact to influence the risk of cardiometabolic, neurological, and musculoskeletal disorders?
To what extent do individual characteristics, such as metabolic profile and genetic susceptibility, modify the relationship between lifestyle habits and health outcomes?
What biological mechanisms, including changes in body composition, brain structure, and blood biomarkers, link these exposures to clinical outcomes?
Project Objectives
The first objective is to investigate the combined effects of behavioral patterns, diet, and metabolic health on the incidence of major chronic conditions such as cardiometabolic disorders, stroke, and osteoarthritis.
The second objective is to explore how individual differences in metabolism and genetics influence the effectiveness of lifestyle factors. This will identify high-risk subgroups for specific physical or nutritional interventions.
The third objective is to examine disease pathophysiology using imaging, body composition, and biomarkers. We aim to understand disease progression and predict adverse clinical outcomes, such as the need for surgery or hospital readmission, to promote targeted strategies and guide personalized patient rehabilitation.