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Tonia Poteat, PhD, assistant professor of social medicine, and Krista M. Perreira, PhD, professor of social medicine, have received an R01 grant from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI).


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The grant is titled, Cardiovascular Health of Sexual and Gender Minorities in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (SGM HCHS/SOL). The cardiovascular health of Hispanic/Latino sexual and gender minorities has been understudied. The goal of this study is to examine relationships between sexual/gender minority stress, coping, social support, and heart disease – a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among Hispanic/Latinos in the U.S. Findings will inform development of culturally-appropriate interventions to address psychosocial factors that may contribute to cardiovascular health disparities by sexual orientation and gender identity.

Dr. Poteat is committed to work that centers on marginalized populations and considers the intersections of multiple marginalized identities. Her research has attended to understanding and addressing structural stigma that impacts the health and well-being of sexual and gender minority people of color. Likewise, Dr. Perreira’s research and teaching activities focus on the promotion of health equity and social justice. She combines qualitative and quantitative methodologies to study migration and the health consequences of migration as well as many aspects of Hispanic/Latino health including mental health, cardiovascular health, and access to health care services. Both Drs. Poteat and Perreira emphasize partnerships with community-based organizations, schools, and local and state governments to promote inclusivity in research and facilitate the translation of research into practice.