How culture affects blood pressure and stress in Yup'ik Alaska Native people
The impact of enculturation on the epigenetic relationship between chronic stress and hypertension in Yup'ik Alaska Native people
This study is looking at how following Yup'ik traditions and cultural practices can help Yup'ik Alaska Native people manage their blood pressure better, especially in the face of stress, to find ways to support healthier living and reduce the risk of stroke.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10997413 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how cultural practices and adherence to Yup'ik traditions influence blood pressure regulation among Yup'ik Alaska Native people. It aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that link cultural identity to resilience against hypertension, a significant risk factor for stroke. By examining the effects of chronic stress and cultural enculturation, the study seeks to identify ways to promote healthier blood pressure levels in this population. The research will involve analyzing biological samples and stress indicators to understand these relationships better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Yup'ik Alaska Native individuals who experience chronic stress and are interested in the impact of their cultural practices on health.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as Yup'ik or are not part of the Alaska Native population may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to culturally tailored interventions that improve blood pressure and reduce stroke risk among Yup'ik Alaska Native individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the health benefits of cultural adherence, but this specific molecular approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyer, Bert Brandon — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Boyer, Bert Brandon
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.