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 Leading the nation's largest study of health and disease in Hispanic/Latino populations is Martha L. Daviglus, MD, MPH, PhD, professor of preventive medicine. The study is funded by a $9.6 million, 6.5-year grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). A multi-disciplinary team of health experts from Northwestern and the University of Chicago will work together on the study.
Chicago is one of four research sites and holds the designation of having the third largest Hispanic population in the country. Approximately 4,000 Hispanics of various nationalities will be recruited. "We know that Latinos, who are becoming the largest minority group in the country, have a higher prevalence of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other risk factors," says Dr. Daviglus, who is of Hispanic descent. "Hopefully we can apply what we learn from this study to improve the health of Latinos and other underserved populations." Participants will be followed for up to four years and will receive several screenings and medical exams focused on identifying the existence of and prevalence for cardiovascular disease, asthma, diabetes, stroke, and other conditions. The study takes into account the role of diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors, along with culture and socioeconomic status. The Hispanic population is expected to triple in size by 2050, according to NIH director Elias A. Zerhouni, MD. The knowledge gained from this study will also enhance understanding of health issues in other ethnic groups, he adds. | |
