Understanding how cultural changes affect obesity in Latino children
Official title: Behavioral Research on Acculturation and moderating and mediating Variables Observed Specifically among Latinos: BRAVOS
Funded at University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-10936804 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how adapting to a new culture affects the eating habits of low-income Latino kids aged 2-5, especially when it comes to eating fruits and vegetables, to help find better ways to prevent obesity in these young children.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Las Vegas, United States) |
| Project start | August 14, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $179,927 |
| NIH project number | 1R16GM154708-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10936804 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are low-income Latino children aged 2-5 years who are at risk for obesity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Latino or are outside the age range of 2-5 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between acculturation and obesity among low-income Latino children, particularly those aged 2-5 years. It aims to explore how cultural adaptation influences dietary behaviors, specifically fruit and vegetable intake, which are critical in managing obesity risk. The study employs innovative technology to measure carotenoid levels in the skin, providing a non-invasive way to assess dietary habits over time. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to identify effective strategies for preventing obesity in this vulnerable population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that reduce obesity rates among Latino children, improving their long-term health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that cultural factors significantly influence dietary behaviors among Latino populations, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Las Vegas
Las Vegas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johansen, Christopher Martin — University of Nevada Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Johansen, Christopher Martin
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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.