Exploring how racial inequities in mortality affect health outcomes

The Loved Ones Left Behind: Examining the Health Implications of Racial Inequities in Mortality

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11041031

This study looks at how the deaths of family members, especially in Black communities, affect the health and well-being of those who are left behind, and it aims to understand these impacts better by talking to people and analyzing data from before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11041031 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of racial disparities in mortality, particularly focusing on the Black population, and how these disparities affect the health of surviving family members. It aims to quantify the prevalence of deaths within families and networks, and how these experiences contribute to psychological distress and overall health outcomes. The study will utilize interviews to understand the mechanisms behind these health impacts and will analyze data from before and during the COVID-19 pandemic to identify trends and differences. By examining these factors, the research seeks to shed light on the broader implications of mortality on health inequities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Black individuals and families who have experienced multiple deaths within their networks, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the Black community or who have not experienced significant familial loss may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions to address health disparities faced by families affected by racial inequities in mortality.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the social determinants of health can lead to significant insights into health disparities, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable findings.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.