Preventing early substance use among American Indian youth and their families
Evaluation of an optimized intervention to prevent early substance use among American Indian youth: Examination of expanded impacts on youth and parents
This study is creating a program to help American Indian youth avoid using drugs and alcohol early by using their cultural strengths and community support, especially after the challenges brought on by COVID-19.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10912893 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing and testing a culturally grounded prevention program aimed at reducing early substance use among American Indian youth. By leveraging cultural strengths and community connections, the program seeks to address the unique challenges faced by these communities, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involves collaboration with local partners on a Northern Plains Reservation to understand risk factors and implement effective interventions. Participants will engage in activities that reinforce family and cultural ties, which are essential for promoting healthy behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are American Indian youth and their families, particularly those living in or connected to Northern Plains Reservations.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as American Indian or are not part of the targeted communities may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce early substance use among American Indian youth, leading to improved health outcomes and stronger community ties.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in culturally tailored prevention programs for Indigenous populations, indicating a promising approach for this initiative.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whitesell, Nancy Rumbaugh — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Whitesell, Nancy Rumbaugh
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 below.