The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) has been awarded an $18.8 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to establish the Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center. This significant initiative aims to reduce cancer health disparities in underserved Hispanic communities across the region.
The Rio Grande Valley, home to over 1.3 million residents, faces some of the highest rates of liver, gall bladder, stomach, and cervical cancers in the nation. The predominantly Hispanic population in the area also bears a disproportionate burden of chronic liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma.
The newly established center will focus on addressing these pressing health issues that disproportionately affect the local Hispanic population. By leveraging the substantial funding, UTRGV plans to conduct cutting-edge research, develop targeted interventions, and implement community-based programs to combat cancer disparities.
Dr. Guy Bailey, president of UTRGV, Dr. Michael Hocker, dean of the UTRGV School of Medicine, and Dr. Subhash C. Chauhan, director of the university’s South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, are key figures spearheading this initiative. Their leadership will be crucial in guiding the center’s efforts to improve cancer outcomes and overall health in the region.
This grant represents a significant step forward in addressing the unique health challenges faced by the Rio Grande Valley’s Hispanic communities. By focusing on research, education, and community engagement, the new Cancer Health Disparity Research Center aims to make substantial progress in reducing cancer disparities and improving health outcomes for this underserved population.
“UTRGV awarded $18.8 million National Institutes of Health grant” (October 6, 2024)