NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving cancer health outcomes in the Rio Grande Valley

Official title: Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center

Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11001856 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is all about helping people in the Rio Grande Valley understand cancer better and get the support they need for treatment, while also working closely with the community to make sure everyone has access to the care they deserve.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Rio Grande Valley
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Edinburg, United States)
Project startAugust 18, 2024
Project endMarch 31, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$650,427
NIH project number1U54MD019970-01
Project IDNIH-11001856 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation are individuals from the Rio Grande Valley community who are affected by cancer or at risk for cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients outside the Rio Grande Valley or those not affected by cancer may not receive benefits from this research.

What this research studies

The Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center focuses on engaging the community to identify health needs and promote participation in cancer research. This initiative includes patient navigation support, education, and outreach to help individuals understand and access treatment options. By building trust and relationships with local organizations, the center aims to reduce health disparities and improve overall health outcomes in the region. The program emphasizes culturally competent approaches to ensure effective communication and education within diverse populations.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cancer care and health outcomes for underserved populations in the Rio Grande Valley.

How similar studies have gone: Previous community engagement initiatives have shown success in reducing health disparities and improving patient outcomes in similar populations.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
    Edinburg, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Tapia, Beatriz — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Study coordinator: Tapia, Beatriz

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.