Investigating how COVID-19 affects substance use among different ethnic groups of young adults

Ethnic Differences in the Effects of COVID on the Substance Use Behavior of Emerging Adults

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA · NIH-10746826

This study is looking at how COVID-19 has affected substance use among young adults, especially focusing on Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders, to see how things like stress and financial struggles have changed their drinking or drug habits during and after the pandemic.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF HAWAII AT MANOA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HONOLULU, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10746826 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of COVID-19 on substance use behaviors among emerging adults, particularly focusing on Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders (NHOPI) compared to other ethnic groups. It aims to understand how factors such as financial distress, stress, perceived discrimination, and social isolation have influenced substance use patterns during and after the pandemic. By examining these differences, the study seeks to identify the underlying mechanisms that may lead to increased substance use in this demographic. Participants will be surveyed about their experiences and behaviors related to substance use before and after the onset of COVID-19.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are emerging adults aged 18-29, particularly those who identify as Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islanders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not within the age range of 18-29 or do not identify as part of the ethnic groups being studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that address substance use and mental health issues in vulnerable populations affected by COVID-19.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that similar approaches to studying the psychosocial impacts of crises on substance use have yielded valuable insights, suggesting this study could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

HONOLULU, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, neoplasm/cancer, cardiovascular disorder, Cardiovascular Diseases

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.