Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, is the focus of Professor Joslene Tilvikas de Sá's doctoral thesis in the Physical Education program. The research, examining the efficacy of the plant on cardiovascular changes during menopause, was conducted in the Unaerp Biotechnology Postgraduate Program under the coordination of Professor and Researcher Renê de Oliveira Beleboni.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide, with over 17 million people dying each year due to heart or blood vessel issues. The disease becomes more prevalent after menopause, along with other conditions that can affect women's well-being and health, such as weight gain.
The research indicated that curcumin is effective in treating conditions like diabetes, arterial hypertension, and heart diseases. Another finding was the prevention of body mass gain, highlighting the compound's potential to alleviate inflammatory effects associated with frequent overweight and obesity after menopause. "Curcumin is available in various pharmacies and commercial medication outlets, being a quality product that, when prescribed by doctors, tends not to cause adverse reactions and provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits," explains Professor Joslene.
The research was conducted by Professor Joslene Tilvikas de Sá from the Physical Education program
For the researcher, the study represents a new approach to treating cardiovascular diseases among women, offering an effective, low-cost alternative beneficial for those who react negatively to other medications, as curcumin is a natural product. "One of the greatest contributions relates to the well-being and quality of life of postmenopausal women, considering the negative symptoms experienced in various physical and emotional aspects. There is also a decrease in cardiovascular protection related to inflammatory processes since estrogen and progesterone hormones are no longer produced. Curcumin provides this anti-inflammatory benefit and results in preventing cardiovascular diseases and other inflammations identified in the research."
Scholarship - To complete her doctorate in the Biotechnology Postgraduate Program, Professor Joslene was awarded the Faculty and Staff Capacity Building Scholarship Program, granted by the University to professors and campus collaborators. The professor emphasizes that the opportunity was a significant incentive for continuing studies and academic and scientific specialization, highlighting the importance of assistance from other professors, undergraduate research students, and laboratory interns for conducting the research.
"Undertaking a doctorate in one's workplace greatly facilitates us, educators, in terms of both resources and physical learning facilities. The gratitude is immense, and it is very important for professors to have this opportunity within the university where they work. It's a way for the institution itself to invest in its professionals, resulting in various positive outcomes, especially within the institution, benefiting all students and the common good," says the researcher.
