Bio

Alexandra Ward is currently a Clinical Research Coordinator at Stanford School of Medicine in the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from UC Berkeley and has a strong interest in the intersection of medicine and social science. Alexandra is particularly passionate about advancing health equity and studying the social determinants of health. Her experience spans clinical work, academic research, and community engagement. For inquiries, please feel free to contact her.

Education & Certifications

  • BA, UC Berkeley (2024)

Contact

  • Work
    alward@stanford.edu
    University - Staff Department: Pediatrics - Endocrinology Position: Clinical Research Coordinator Associate

Additional Info

Links

All Publications

  • "All my food is customized*": Barriers & facilitators concerning nutrition for persons living with cystic fibrosis. Journal of cystic fibrosis : official journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society Bruce, A. S., Suttiratana, S. C., Grabowski, H., Sweeney, L., Ward, A., Mazuera, S., Alvarez, J. A., Yablon, D., Naranjo, D. 2025

    Abstract

    Maintaining optimal nutrition is often an important concern for persons with cystic fibrosis (PWCF). With the introduction of effective modulators, the focus has now shifted from preventing malnourishment to instead stabilizing weight and preventing further weight gain. Research on how PWCF experience and manage their nutrition in this new era remains limited.The Exploring Attitudes Toward Nutrition (EATN) study employed a qualitative, multi-site approach to conduct semi-structured interviews with 44 adults living with CF. These interviews explored participants' definitions of "good" nutrition, the facilitators that help support their diet and lifestyle, and the barriers they face. Thematic analysis was used to identify key barriers and facilitators across personal, social, and healthcare-related domains.Interviews revealed PWCF defined nutrition in a multitude of ways, from 'a means to achieve optimal health,' to categorizing foods as "good" or "bad." Key facilitators for maintaining good nutrition included support from registered dietitian/CF care teams, convenience, physical activity, social support, and observations of weight stabilization after elexacaftor/tezacaftor /ivacaftor (ETI). Conversely, barriers included lack of convenience or time, gastrointestinal symptoms, sick days/ hospitalization, negative dietitian/care team member experiences, finances, and the impact of medications or enzymes.Understanding these supports and challenges is essential for developing effective and personalized nutritional strategies for PWCF. Enhancing access to knowledgeable dietitians, simplifying nutritional recommendations, and addressing cost barriers can significantly improve nutritional outcomes. Future research should focus on applicable solutions that utilize existing successful strategies while addressing common barriers many with CF face.

    View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jcf.2025.07.012

    View details for PubMedID 40713200

https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2368-2111