Investigating cervical cancer health disparities in the Rio Grande Valley
Official title: Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparity Research Center
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11172386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why cervical cancer is so deadly for women in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, by checking how common HPV infections are and what factors might be making things worse, so we can find better ways to help these communities.
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 | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $378,086 |
| NIH project number | 5U54MD019970-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11172386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women living in the Rio Grande Valley, particularly those at risk for cervical cancer due to HPV.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the Rio Grande Valley or those not at risk for cervical cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the high rates of cervical cancer mortality among women in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas. It aims to explore the prevalence of HPV infections and their various genotypes in this population, as well as the socio-behavioral factors contributing to these health disparities. By gathering crucial data on HPV prevalence and genomic variations, the research seeks to develop targeted strategies to combat cervical cancer in affected communities. The study will involve collecting samples and analyzing them to identify the specific HPV types and their associations with health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for cervical cancer in underserved populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in addressing cancer disparities through targeted community health initiatives, indicating potential for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cobos, Everardo — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Cobos, Everardo
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.