Understanding how culture and environment affect substance use in Black and Latinx youth

Cultural and Environmental Influences on Precursors to and Early Stages of Alcohol, Nicotine, and Cannabis Use in Black and Latinx Youth

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-10982461

This study looks at what influences Black and Latinx kids' use of alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis before they become teenagers, focusing on how their culture and experiences shape their choices, so we can create better prevention strategies that really work for them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10982461 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the factors that influence alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis use among Black and Latinx youth before they reach adolescence. It focuses on understanding how cultural elements, such as experiences of discrimination and community involvement, shape the attitudes and behaviors related to substance use. By analyzing data from a large ongoing study, the research aims to identify risk and protective factors that vary by gender and ethnicity. The goal is to inform prevention strategies that are culturally relevant and effective for these communities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Black and Latinx youth aged 12 to 20 who are at risk for substance use.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not belonging to Black or Latinx communities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective prevention programs tailored to the unique needs of Black and Latinx youth, potentially reducing substance use in these populations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding substance use behaviors through culturally informed approaches, making this study a continuation of those efforts.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.