The Impact of Maternal Iron Intake During Pregnancy on Infant Health Outcomes and Human Milk Composition
April 2024
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Dominick Lemas
University of Florida
Department of Health Outcomes and Biomedical Informatics
Research Focus
This project aims to investigate the impact of iron intake during pregnancy on infant health outcomes and breast milk composition. Data extracted from self-reported diet records and human milk samples will be analyzed to determine the proposed association, specifically to gestational age and birth weight. Because iron deficiency is more common during pregnancy and increases risks for poor infant health outcomes, this project aims to emphasize the importance of early health interventions and prenatal care.
Project Responsibilities
I annotate participants' diet records using a food processor that analyzes and complies their diet data. This data is then processed and organized using R in addition to human milk metabolites and electronic health records. I am also responsible for reading relevant literature, creating data visualizations, and the diet team's project management.