Zaw Wai Htoo PhD, MPH

Dr. Zaw Wai Htoo's academic and professional journey weaves a narrative of dedication and passion for health and wellness, combining clinical perspectives with public health dynamics. 

Dr. Htoo holds a Ph.D. in Human Nutrition- Public Health from Kansas State University, and a Medical Doctor Degree from the University of Medicine, Mandalay providing him with clinical perspectives. His scholarly pursuits are complemented by a Master of Public Health and a Certificate in Microbial Genome Analysis, equipping him with knowledge and skills in clinical & public health and human nutrition. His approach to public health and nutrition is driven by a desire to prevent disease, alleviate complications of chronic diseases and medical conditions, and enhance the quality of life on a broader scale. 

His diverse experience and assignments span roles with the United Nations: As a National Officer, Health Officer, for the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and as Programme Assistant for the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP). He also has been a Senior Project Officer for CARE International, and a university faculty/instructor teaching clinical, public health, nutrition, evidence-based practice in health care undergraduate and graduate courses. In these positions, he dedicated to advancing health and nutrition programs, focusing on mother and child health, sexual and reproductive health, young child survival and development, and health and nutrition for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis. 

His research interests include health and nutrition for children, adults, and older adults, lifespan nutrition, nutraceuticals, medical nutrition therapy, and the gut-brain-axis. He also focuses on gut health, obesity, diabetes, chronic medical conditions and metabolic diseases, aging, neurodegenerative diseases, mood and mental health, long-term care, and quality of life. He is passionate about addressing health disparities, promoting health equity, and exploring community health, program management, evaluation, and interdisciplinary research.