Dr. Benjamin Udoka Nwosu, a Nigeria-born Professor of Pediatrics at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, has been honored with the American Diabetes Association Research Award. The award was presented at the Research Dinner held by the American Diabetes Association in May at the Garden City Hotel in New York.
Dr. Nwosu, who serves as the Chief of Endocrinology at the Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York, received the award for his groundbreaking research on utilizing vitamin D to extend the honeymoon phase of type 1 diabetes. The honeymoon phase refers to the period following a type 1 diabetes diagnosis when early treatments can have long-term positive effects on patients. His work, published in 2022, focuses on the potential benefits of high-dose vitamin D in reducing inflammation in pancreatic beta-cells, thereby prolonging their survival.
The findings of Dr. Nwosu’s study, published in the Endocrine Society Reading Room and MedPage Today, have garnered attention in the field of endocrinology and are being utilized in Endocrinology Continuing Medical Education courses. His research has significant implications for the management of type 1 diabetes in children, as it suggests that prolonging the honeymoon phase can lead to a decrease in the severity and occurrence of long-term complications associated with the disease.
Dr. Nwosu currently oversees the early care of children with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes at the Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York and other medical institutions. His work and dedication have brought hope to people with type 1 diabetes, indicating a brighter future for those affected by the disease.
The event celebrating Dr. Nwosu’s achievements included speeches from other recipients of research awards and tributes from patients and their families, recognizing the positive impact of his work on the lives of individuals with type 1 diabetes.