Health and prevention programs for Deaf ASL users and people with hearing loss
Rochester Prevention Research Center
Bringing culturally accessible health and wellness programs to Deaf ASL users and people with hearing loss to prevent disease and boost well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136806 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you are Deaf or have hearing loss, this center partners with your community to design and spread health programs that fit your language and culture. The team uses community-based participatory research to adapt and deliver Deaf Weight Wise (DWW), an evidence-based wellness program for Deaf ASL users, and to learn what helps or blocks successful implementation with diverse partners across the U.S. The center will also support other community-driven prevention projects, expand partnerships, and create ASL-accessible materials. Communication access and community leadership are central to how programs are developed and shared.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults who are Deaf and primarily use ASL, as well as people with hearing loss interested in community-based health and wellness programs, are ideal candidates for involvement.
Not a fit: People without hearing loss or those needing immediate clinical or medical treatment rather than community wellness programming may not see direct benefit from these activities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could increase access to culturally and linguistically appropriate prevention programs and reduce health disparities for Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.
How similar studies have performed: Deaf Weight Wise is an evidence-based program that has previously improved health, wellness, and social connection among Deaf ASL users, while nationwide implementation strategies are still being tested.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barnett, Steven L — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Barnett, Steven L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.