NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Reducing obesity to lower cancer risk in underserved communities

Official title: Addressing Obesity to Reduce Cancer Risk and Health Disparities in Underserved Populations

Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11229330 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how obesity affects cancer risk in rural and Appalachian communities, and it aims to find ways to help people in these areas make healthier lifestyle changes to lower their cancer risk and improve their overall health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project startSeptember 15, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$87,777
NIH project number7K00CA253745-06
Project IDNIH-11229330 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in rural or Appalachian areas who are struggling with obesity and are at risk for cancer.

Less likely to help

Patients living in urban areas or those who do not have obesity-related health concerns may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on addressing obesity and its link to cancer risk in rural and Appalachian populations, who face significant health disparities. The project aims to understand the unique characteristics of these communities that influence health behaviors and obesity-related outcomes. By identifying targetable factors for intervention, the research will adapt evidence-based weight loss programs to better suit the needs of these populations. The ultimate goal is to promote lifestyle modifications that can reduce cancer risk and improve overall health.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to tailored weight loss programs that significantly reduce cancer risk and improve health outcomes for underserved populations.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in implementing weight loss programs in urban settings, but this approach is novel for rural and Appalachian populations.

Where this research is happening

  • Ohio State University
    Columbus, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Zhang, Xiaochen — Ohio State University
  • Study coordinator: Zhang, Xiaochen

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.