How perceived ethnic discrimination affects cognitive function in Mexican-origin adults
Official title: Perceived Ethnic Discrimination and Cognitive Function in Mexican-origin Adults
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-10817926 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how feeling discriminated against because of your ethnicity might affect brain health in Mexican-origin adults, who are more likely to face Alzheimer's and similar conditions, and it will gather daily experiences to help find ways to prevent cognitive decline.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,652 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG078846-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10817926 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Mexican-origin adults in midlife who may be experiencing perceived ethnic discrimination.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not of Mexican origin or who are not experiencing perceived ethnic discrimination may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of perceived ethnic discrimination on cognitive health among Mexican-origin adults, who are at a higher risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study focuses on understanding how experiences of unfair treatment based on ethnicity can contribute to cognitive decline. By using a method called ecological momentary assessment, researchers will collect real-time data on discrimination experiences and cognitive performance throughout the day. This approach aims to identify critical risk and protective factors that can inform future prevention and intervention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for cognitive health disparities in Mexican-origin adults.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on Mexican-origin adults and perceived discrimination is novel, related research has shown that psychosocial stressors can significantly impact cognitive health.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munoz, Elizabeth — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Munoz, Elizabeth
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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.