Improving mental health support for cancer patients in the Rio Grande Valley
Official title: Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11001859 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to help cancer patients, especially in the Hispanic community, by making it easier for them to get mental health support right at their regular doctor’s office, so they can feel better overall.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | August 18, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $405,992 |
| NIH project number | 1U54MD019970-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001859 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients and survivors, particularly those from Hispanic backgrounds living in the Rio Grande Valley.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in the Rio Grande Valley or those who are not experiencing cancer-related mental health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the mental health needs of cancer patients, particularly within the Hispanic community in the Rio Grande Valley. It aims to implement a model that integrates behavioral health services into primary care clinics, making it easier for patients to access the support they need. By targeting underserved populations, the project seeks to reduce disparities in mental health screening and treatment among cancer survivors. The initiative will evaluate the effectiveness of this integration in improving overall health outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance mental health support for cancer patients, leading to better overall health outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that integrating behavioral health into primary care can improve access and outcomes for patients, suggesting a promising approach for this initiative.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: George, Deepu — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: George, Deepu
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.