NYU Langone’s Section for Health Equity, a part of the Division of Health and Behavior, pursues research to advance the health of ethnic and racial minorities, including Asian American, Native American, Pacific Islander, Arab American, Black, and Latinx communities in the New York City metropolitan area and beyond. Our population health scientists conduct research in the following five areas.

Cancer Research Track

In this track, our experts conduct studies aimed at alleviating cancer-related disparities to help at-risk and minority populations receive advanced and effective cancer care. Some of the many research projects in this track include addressing the psychological needs of patients and survivors, prevention guidelines for infection-related cancers, and reducing the overall burden of cancer. Learn more about our Cancer Research Track.

Cardiovascular Health and Diabetes Research Track

Researchers in this track evaluate disparities in cardiovascular disease and diabetes and develop evidence-based, culturally tailored interventions to prevent and manage these conditions among racial and ethnic minorities. Interventions are implemented by our community health workers. Learn more about our Cardiovascular Health and Diabetes Research Track.

Mental Health Research Track

The goal of this track is to assess and improve the psychological health of racial and ethnic minorities. Researchers investigate the stigma related to mental illness, the impact of spiritual wellbeing on mental health, the effect of colonial trauma and oppression, and outcomes associated with cognitive behavioral therapy and exercise, among other topics. Learn more about our Mental Health Research Track.

Healthy Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Research Track

Our experts work to advance the wellbeing of older minority populations in the community setting through a variety of projects. These include creating a research action plan for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, culturally adapting a toolkit to diagnose cognitive impairment and early dementia, and conducting a literature review to determine the impact of construction noise on local communities. Learn more about the Healthy Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Research Track.

Gender Equity Research Track

Researchers in this track seek to advance gender equity by improving mental and sexual and reproductive health outcomes among difficult-to-reach and underserved populations. Our experts are studying health and service needs among survivors of sex trafficking, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake and adherence in transgender women, and gender-based violence during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, among other topics. Learn more about the Gender Equity Research Track.