A groundbreaking study by a Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) scholar is shining a light on natural interventions to combat age-related muscle decline among older Filipinos.

Dr. Maria Grace A. De Guzman, a recent PhD in Health Research graduate from the University of Santo Tomas (UST), dedicated her doctoral dissertation to exploring the potential of curcumin—a bioactive compound derived from turmeric—to manage sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is a condition characterized by the progressive loss of muscle strength, mass, and function, which severely impacts mobility, independence, and overall quality of life in seniors.

Underscoring the national relevance of her work, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. emphasized the importance of proactive geriatric healthcare.  “Given the growing elderly population in the country, studies on muscle conditions like sarcopenia become increasingly relevant. With our scholarship grants through the DOST-PCHRD, we provide opportunities for physician-scientists to train and pursue research that addresses the tangible health concerns of Filipinos.” — DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr.

Dr. De Guzman’s research focused on leveraging the well-known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties of curcumin to support muscle function and reduce pain among older Filipino adults at risk of the condition.

Dr. De Guzman’s dissertation has already garnered international recognition. Her findings were presented as a free paper at the XXVII World Congress of Neurology in Seoul, South Korea, with its abstract officially published in the prestigious Journal of the Neurological Sciences.

The study provides vital scientific evidence that could reshape future clinical practices, inform health policy development, and pave the way for practical, safe, and evidence-based approaches to geriatric care in the Philippines.

Dr. De Guzman credited her academic and scientific breakthroughs directly to the government’s robust support. “I am grateful to the DOST-PCHRD for funding my doctoral studies. This program equipped me with the skills to investigate conditions affecting physical capacity,” she said. “I dedicate this research to helping older Filipino adults maintain their strength and quality of life as they age.”

DOST continues to champion local researchers to drive national development. “We are very proud of scholars like Dr. De Guzman who expand our understanding of health conditions affecting our people,” Secretary Solidum added. “Moving forward, we remain eager to forge partnerships with institutions like UST to support the training and development of more physician-scientists in the Philippines.“