معرفی
Dr. D. M. Sloboda is a Professor in the Department of Biochemistry within the Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University. She leads the Sloboda Lab which focuses on the early life origins of health and disease, investigating how early life adversity impacts fetal development and influences chronic disease risk later in life. The lab conducts community-based studies including the Art of Creation, CanTec-19, and Mothers to Babies (M2B) projects.
Dr. Sloboda's research centers on Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD), perinatal health, fetal development, maternal nutrition, and early life determinants of chronic disease. Her work examines how parental factors impact placental development and function, and investigates host-microbe interactions during and after pregnancy. She takes a community-based approach to health support for parents-to-be, with a strong commitment to addressing health inequities through poverty reduction, improved educational opportunities, and access to healthcare.
Dr. Sloboda's recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on the intersection of maternal health, nutrition, and developmental programming. Her work spans from fundamental research on fetal development to community-based interventions and knowledge translation through arts-based approaches. Her 2025 publication on syndemics during pregnancy represents the most current direction of her research.
- Actively publishes in the field of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease
- Leads community-engaged research projects
- Focuses on translating complex health concepts to the public
Dr. Sloboda mentors numerous graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, with a lab comprising members from diverse backgrounds including biochemistry, physiology, nutrition, and life sciences. Her lab has produced numerous PhD and Master's graduates who have gone on to careers in research and healthcare. She collaborates extensively with community organizations in Hamilton, Ontario to develop interventions that reduce barriers and promote health behaviors among pregnant individuals.
The Sloboda Lab operates the Art of Creation project in partnership with the Art Gallery of Hamilton, using art as a tool to explain the importance of health before and during pregnancy to the public, policymakers, and healthcare providers. This innovative approach to knowledge translation helps address the challenge of discussing sensitive topics without placing undue blame on pregnant individuals.
