About

Steven A. Abrams, MD, is a professor and the Director of the Dell Pediatric Research Institute at the University of Texas. His research focuses on cell and tissue engineering, specifically on mineral requirements for children, growth of pre-term infants, and neonatal care. Abrams has developed and championed the use of stable isotopes to determine mineral requirements and physiological turnover rates in infants and children. He developed the mass spectrometric methods and analytical approaches that enable populations worldwide to obtain critical data for effective food fortification strategies. His work has furthered understanding of the physiological basis for hormonal changes during growth, affecting bone formation and turnover, through mathematical modeling techniques adapted by his team for infants and small children. Abrams has conducted research studies using mineral isotopes in more than 20 countries and operated the largest nutritional research lab in the world for 25 years, analyzing biological samples for mineral isotope enrichment. He has frequently consulted with governments and served as a trainer for the International Atomic Energy Agency, helping develop the skills of scientists in countries including Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, and South Africa on isotopic techniques related to human nutrition. Abrams has authored dozens of methodological papers and a textbook relating disease processes to nutrient metabolism. He continues to consult with companies on product design to incorporate key nutrients, especially calcium and iron. He has served as a member and is currently chair of the Committee on Nutrition of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Abrams has also published numerous editorials advocating for healthy nutrition and healthcare needs of children. His educational background includes an MD from The Ohio State University, and he has received awards such as the Samuel J. Fomon Nutrition Award from the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2016.

Research topics

• Medicine
• Physiology
• Pediatrics
• Internal medicine
• Endocrinology
• Environmental health

Selected publications

• Estimating the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections by jointly modelling seroprevalence, hospitalization and mortality data, February 2020 – January 2021, Belgium

  Archives of Public Health · 2026-03-06

  articleOpen access

  BACKGROUND: Belgium experienced two SARS-CoV-2 epidemic waves in 2020, in spring and autumn. Due to limited testing capacity, restrictive case definitions, asymptomatic infections, and incomplete testing compliance, case counts represent only a lower bound of SARS-CoV-2 infection incidence. We estimated this incidence from February 2020 to January 2021 by jointly modelling seroprevalence and surveillance data. METHODS: We developed a hierarchical Bayesian model that jointly fits seroprevalence, hospitalization, and mortality data to a shared latent incidence curve, represented by a spline. The model accounts for time-varying serological test sensitivity (reflecting seroconversion and seroreversion) using informative priors, and simultaneously estimates test specificity, infection-to-event distributions, and time-varying infection hospitalization rates (IHR) and infection fatality rates (IFR). Seroprevalence data comprised 37,235 samples from two repeated cross-sectional studies: residual laboratory samples tested with the EuroImmun IgG ELISA and blood donor samples tested with the Wantai Ab ELISA. Hospitalization and mortality counts were obtained from national COVID-19 surveillance. RESULTS: By early 2021, an estimated 19.0% (95% Credible Interval (CrI) 17.4-20.7), 13.6% (CrI 11.5-15.8) and 10.8% (CrI 8.7-13.2) of the Belgian 18-49, 50-64 and 65-74 year-olds had been infected with SARS-CoV-2. The first wave mostly affected the younger age group, with a peak weekly incidence of 2.0% (CrI 1.7-2.3) late March 2020. The second wave peaked late October 2020 with weekly incidences of 1.6% (CrI 1.2-2.1) among 65-74 year-olds and 2.8% (CrI 2.4-3.3) among 18-49 year-olds. IHR and IFR were considerably higher in older age groups and declined over time. Among 65-74 year-olds IHR declined from 9.9% (CrI 7.3-14.2) to 5.0% (CrI 3.5-7.1) and IFR from 2.8% (CrI 2.0-4.0) to 1.2% (CrI 0.9-1.7). CONCLUSION: An estimated 16.3% (CrI 15.1-17.4) of the Belgian adult population had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 by early 2021. Joint modelling of seroprevalence and surveillance data provides a framework for estimating infection burden.

  PublisherDOI

• Expert recommendations for preterm neonates’ growth goals: Considerations for clinicians

  Seminars in Perinatology · 2026-04-01

  article
  PublisherDOI

• What a Peer-Led, Community-Engaged Lung Cancer Screening Pilot Study Taught Us About Reaching Black Veterans

  Journal of the American College of Radiology · 2025-12-01 · 1 citations

  article
  PublisherDOI

• Co-design of Peer-Led Community Outreach to Improve Equity, Veteran-Centeredness and Uptake of Lung Cancer Screening

  American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine · 2025-05-01

  article

  Abstract RATIONALE: Fewer than 20% of eligible Veterans have undergone lung cancer screening (LCS), with rates even lower among Black Veterans. Barriers to LCS for Black Veterans include lack of awareness, stigma, and mistrust, highlighting the need for tailored interventions. Co-design, a participatory action research method, involves community members collaborating as equal partners with researchers from the earliest stages, sharing knowledge and experience. Here we describe the process and products of the co-design and planning of Veteran-led, community-based LCS awareness events for Black Veterans. METHODS: Our co-design team included 7 Black Veterans, a Veteran peer trained to support other Veterans, 2 community organization representatives, and our research team. Ten, 2-hour co-design sessions were held to develop LCS awareness event protocols and materials. Sessions followed equity-centered best practices, prioritizing Veteran input and sharing resources to deepen research understanding. Sessions included check-ins, recaps, and prototype updates, with research team members developing materials refined through co-designers’ input. Following content and format specification, we partnered with local organizations for event planning. We recorded ethnographic fieldnotes throughout this process to capture Veteran and community partner impressions. RESULTS: Co-design and collaboration with local community partners informed every aspect of our advertising strategy, event logistics, and educational content, and built trusting relationships (Figure). We advertised via flyers, local radio shows, and existing email lists, explicitly inviting Black Veterans and their networks. Flyers highlighted community organization partnerships and included a QR code linked to VA resources. The two-hour event included an opportunity to register for our pilot study, food and networking, a peer-led introduction to LCS, a testimonial video from a Black Veteran who has been screened, role play of shared decision-making, and expert Q&A. Community partners advised holding events at accessible, meaningful locations for Black Veterans. Based on evaluation of ethnographic fieldnotes, we found that the co-design process built mutual trust between researchers and Veteran co-designers and fostered strong connections among Veteran co-designers. As one Veteran noted “We work like a family; we are dealing with family issues, that's what this is.” The event planning process also strengthened relationships with several well-connected Black Veteran community organizations. CONCLUSIONS: Co-design substantially shaped the community-based LCS events aimed at improving Black Veterans’ awareness of and engagement in LCS. Further, the trusting relationships built through this process are catalysts for future community engagement and research. The events are now being held and pilot-tested for feasibility and acceptability at four sites in Boston.

  PublisherDOI

• FDA Expert Panel on Infant Formula “Operation Stork Speed” June 2025: Part 1, Nutrient Considerations

  Preprints.org · 2025-08-04

  preprintOpen access1st authorCorresponding

  Operation Stork Speed, launched by the Food and Drug Administration(FDA) in March 2025, represents a comprehensive initiative to update infant formula regulations that have remained largely unchanged since the 1980’s. This expert panel review addresses recommendations for nutrients considering four decades of accumulated scientific evidence since then. Current FDA fatty acid regulations specify only total fat content and minimum linoleic acid requirements despite substantial international consensus on polyunsaturated fatty acid specifications. Evidence strongly supports establishing maximum linoleic acid levels and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA) requirements, reflecting the critical role of omega-3 fatty acids in neurocognitive development and visual acuity. The panel emphasizes that saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids comprise over 80% of human milk fatty acids, while acknowledging recent concerns about seed oils and supporting balanced PUFA formulations. Carbohydrate composition presents significant concerns, as over half of US formulas contain glucose polymers (e.g. corn syrup solids) despite lactose being the primary carbohydrate energy source in human milk. Observational studies link corn syrup-based formulas to multiple possible health risks, including excess weight gain, warranting reconsideration of the value of non-lactose carbohydrate substitutions in formulas for healthy children. Protein content recommendations support decreasing the upper range of allowable intake, aligning with European standards and addressing concerns about excessive protein intake contributing to later obesity risk. Micronutrient evaluation reveals the need to reduce the iron content in routine formulas to lower levels, consistent with European Food Safety Authority recommendations and emerging safety data and a need to set upper limits for the concentration of calcium and phosphorus. Overall, infant formula is a healthy product and has many decades of successfully feeding infants. These comprehensive updates aim to more closely align US infant formula regulations with current scientific understanding and international standards while supporting optimal infant growth, development, and long-term health outcomes.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• FDA Expert Panel on Infant Formula “Operation Stork Speed” June 2025: Part 3, Marketing of Infant Formulas, Breastfeeding Support, Hypoallergenic Formulas, and Nutrition for Preterm Infants

  Preprints.org · 2025-08-04

  preprintOpen access1st authorCorresponding

  The U.S. formula industry utilizes aggressive marketing strategies which exploit parental anxieties, undermine breastfeeding, violate ethical international standards, all of which contribute to early formula introduction and disparities in breastfeeding. Additionally, misleading or complex labeling contribute to caregiver and provider confusion regarding the content of formulas. A centralized, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-maintained database of infant formulas could support caregivers and healthcare professionals in countering misinformation and making evidence-based decisions. Human milk remains the gold standard for infant nutrition, with strong evidence supporting its role in reducing morbidity and mortality, especially in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Despite this, disparities persist in breastfeeding rates, particularly among Black and Hispanic mothers. These are driven by structural barriers, including lack of paid parental leave and inadequate lactation support. Donor human milk (DHM) is the recommended alternative for high-risk infants in the NICU when mother’s own milk (MOM) is unavailable. However, due to lack of federal funding and oversight, high cost and inconsistent insurance coverage, the use of DHM use is limited, especially in safety-net hospitals. Specialized hypoallergenic and metabolic formulas are essential for managing medical conditions including cow’s milk-protein allergy and inborn errors of metabolism. These are regulated as exempt formulas but must meet rigorous clinical standards. In the NICU, adequate early nutrition for preterm infants is crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality and improve long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. Human milk fortifiers (HMFs) are composed of similar ingredients as infant formula and are used to improve the nutritional content feedings given in the NICU and post-discharge. The use of live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) or probiotics as additives to preterm infants have been demonstrated in multiple studies to reduce the incidence of NEC, late-onset sepsis, and all-cause mortality.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• FDA Expert Panel on Infant Formula “Operation Stork Speed” June 2025: Part 2, Regulatory and Safety Considerations

  Preprints.org · 2025-08-05

  preprintOpen access

  Operation Stork Speed was launched to modernize infant formula oversight after 2022 shortages and other evidence of supply chain and safety issues. Current Food and Drug Administration(FDA) processes to regulate formula are at times slow and complex, making it difficult for new formulas to enter the market. One key pathway to adding bioactive substances or other compounds to infant formula is via the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) route. GRAS and food additive pathways require safety data, but food additive petitions require more safety information and cannot be marketed until FDA approval is granted. Concern has been expressed about the safety of formula related to the possible presence of toxic substances in formula. Heavy metals, PFAS and other toxins can be found in formulas and infants can be at increased risk of effects. US lacks enforceable limits, unlike EU, Canadian and Australian counterparts. To enhance the regulatory environment for infant formula, legislative updates, supply chain transparency and alignment with global safety standards are needed.

  PublisherOA PDFDOI

• Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Intact Parathyroid Hormone as Functional Biomarkers of Bone Mass in Early Childhood

  Journal of Nutrition · 2025-03-24 · 1 citations

  articleOpen access

  BACKGROUND: The 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration at which parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentration plateaus has been considered to benchmark vitamin D deficiency. However, in young children, there is limited evidence for a suppression point in the 25(OH)D-PTH relationship or its relevance to bone mass accrual. OBJECTIVES: To determine whether the threshold of 25(OH)D at PTH suppression in young children is corroborated by associations of 25(OH)D (or PTH) with bone mineral content (BMC) and areal bone mineral density (aBMD). METHODS: In a cross-sectional secondary analysis of data from the BONe and mUScle health in Kids (BONUSKids) study of 4-y-old children in Bangladesh, serum 25(OH)D and intact PTH (iPTH) were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and a chemiluminescent immunoassay, respectively. BMC and aBMD were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Associations between 25(OH)D, iPTH, and bone outcomes (BMC, BMC z-score, aBMD, and aBMD z-score) were modeled using multivariable-adjusted linear regression and spline models. Model fit was compared using Akaike's Information Criteria. RESULTS: Of 534 participants (51% female), 28% had 25(OH)D concentrations <25 nmol/L and 34% had iPTH >6.7 pmol/L. Model fit of the inverse relationship between 25(OH)D and iPTH was optimized with an inflection point at 25 nmol/L [<25 nmol/L: -0.16 pmol/L per 1 nmol/L increase in 25(OH)D; 95% confidence interval (CI): -0.22, -0.10; P < 0.001), above which the slope attenuated (≥25 nmol/L: -0.02 pmol/L; 95% CI: -0.04, -0.003; P = 0.019]. However, the positive linear associations between 25(OH)D and bone mass outcomes were monotonic (P < 0.05), and iPTH was not associated with any bone outcome in adjusted models (P > 0.05 for all). Associations were similar in males and females. CONCLUSIONS: Among 4-y-old children in Dhaka, Bangladesh, we did not identify a 25(OH)D threshold to define vitamin D deficiency based on its association with bone mass. However, efforts to raise 25(OH)D to ≥25 nmol/L may be warranted based on the relatively strong inverse association of 25(OH)D with iPTH below this threshold. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT03537443.

  PublisherDOI

• Dr. Salvador Villalpando Hernández

  Advances in Nutrition · 2025-01-18

  reviewOpen access1st authorCorresponding

  An International Review Journal, we are publishing a tribute to Dr. Villalpando, who recently passed away in Mexico [1].This tribute was lovingly written by his colleagues at the National Institute of Public Health (INSP) where he worked for over 20 y.I had the tremendous personal honor of working directly with Dr. Villalpando on a project related to iron absorption in a government-supported program to provide enhanced nutrition to small children in Mexico [2].I was

  PublisherDOI

• Perspective: operation stork speed: strategies for reviewing and advising on infant formula

  American Journal of Clinical Nutrition · 2025-04-11 · 4 citations

  article1st authorCorresponding
  PublisherDOI

Recent grants

• NIH Grant M01RR000188

  NIH · $31.8M · 2011

• NIH Grant R01AR043740

  NIH · $2.9M · 2007

• NIH Grant R03TW006428

  NIH · $122k · 2008

• NIH Grant R03HD061032

  NIH · $136k · 2013

• NIH Grant R01HD036591

  NIH · $691k · 2002

Frequent coauthors

• John F. Aloia

  335 shared

• Glenville Jones

  Queen's University

  332 shared

• Clifford J. Rosen

  MaineHealth

  331 shared

• Steven K. Clinton

  The Ohio State University

  331 shared

• Christopher S. Kovacs

  Memorial University of Newfoundland

  331 shared

• Sue A. Shapses

  330 shared

• Patsy M. Brannon

  330 shared

• JoAnn E. Manson

  Brigham and Women's Hospital

  330 shared

Awards & honors

• Samuel J. Fomon Nutrition Award – American Academy of Pediat…