Improving cancer care access for deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

Using technology-enhanced approaches to advance cancer health equity among diverse deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing populations.

NIH-funded research Gallaudet University · NIH-10909377

This study is looking to help deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing people get better access to cancer information and services by training community health workers who know American Sign Language to guide them through cancer prevention and treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGallaudet University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10909377 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the challenges faced by diverse deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing (DDBHH) populations in accessing cancer health information and services. By employing American Sign Language (ASL)-proficient community health workers as cancer health navigators, the project seeks to enhance communication and understanding of cancer prevention and treatment. Utilizing advanced technology platforms like SNAP and REPEAT, the research will focus on training these navigators to effectively support DDBHH individuals in overcoming barriers to cancer care. The goal is to promote adherence to cancer screenings and reduce health disparities within this community.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing and use American Sign Language.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use American Sign Language or who do not identify as part of the DDBHH community may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve cancer care access and health outcomes for deaf and hard of hearing patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using community health workers to improve health outcomes in various populations, suggesting a promising approach for this specific community.

Where this research is happening

Washington, 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.
Conditions Advanced CancerCancer PatientCancer health equityCancers
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.