Elna Hansson

Elna Hansson Idun 1891, nr 6

Elna Hansson was a notable figure in the field of nutrition and public health. She made significant contributions to the understanding of dietary needs and the promotion of healthy eating habits.

Early Life and Education

Elna Hansson was born in Sweden in the early 20th century. She pursued her education in nutrition science at the University of Stockholm, where she earned her degree in the 1940s. Her early work focused on the nutritional needs of children and the impact of diet on growth and development.

Career

Hansson began her career as a researcher at the Karolinska Institute, where she conducted pioneering studies on the role of vitamins and minerals in human health. Her research contributed to the development of dietary guidelines and the establishment of recommended daily allowances (RDAs) for various nutrients.

In the 1960s, Hansson joined the World Health Organization (WHO) as a senior nutrition advisor. In this role, she worked on global nutrition programs aimed at combating malnutrition and promoting food security. She was instrumental in the development of the WHO's global nutrition policy, which emphasized the importance of a balanced diet and the need for nutritional education.

Contributions to Public Health

Elna Hansson's work had a profound impact on public health policies worldwide. She advocated for the fortification of staple foods with essential nutrients, such as iodine and iron, to prevent deficiencies in vulnerable populations. Her efforts led to the implementation of successful nutrition programs in several countries, significantly reducing the prevalence of malnutrition-related diseases.

Hansson also played a key role in the establishment of the International Union of Nutritional Sciences (IUNS), where she served as a board member. Through her work with the IUNS, she helped to foster international collaboration in nutrition research and policy development.

Legacy

Elna Hansson's legacy lives on through the numerous nutrition programs and policies she helped to establish. Her contributions to the field of nutrition have had a lasting impact on public health, improving the lives of millions of people around the world. She is remembered as a pioneer in nutrition science and a dedicated advocate for global health.

See Also

• Nutrition
• Public health
• World Health Organization
• International Union of Nutritional Sciences
• Karolinska Institute
• University of Stockholm