NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving cancer research and health access in the Rio Grande Valley

Official title: Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center

Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11172382 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is all about helping new researchers in the Rio Grande Valley tackle cancer issues that affect our community, especially for Hispanic families, by creating projects that improve health services and make sure everyone gets the care they need.

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 year2025
Award (this year)$431,896
NIH project number5U54MD019970-02
Project IDNIH-11172382 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in the Rio Grande Valley who are affected by cancer or are part of communities experiencing significant health disparities.

Less likely to help

Patients outside the Rio Grande Valley or those not affected by cancer-related health disparities may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing cancer health disparities by supporting early-stage investigators in the Rio Grande Valley, a region significantly affected by socio-economic challenges and high cancer rates. The project aims to foster excellence in cancer research and improve access to health services for the predominantly Hispanic population. By developing pilot projects and collaborative research, the initiative seeks to address the unique health needs of the community and promote culturally competent care. The program also emphasizes increasing the representation of underrepresented minorities in biomedical sciences.

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 research has shown success in addressing health disparities through community-focused cancer research initiatives, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

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

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Salloum, Ihsan M — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Study coordinator: Salloum, Ihsan M

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.