Understanding how structural racism affects dental care for Hispanic children
Official title: Examining impacts of structural racism and discrimination on Hispanic treatment differences and oral health disparities; known internally as "Smiles of Hope - Proyecto Hispanico de Esperanza" (SoPHE)
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10909478 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how racism and discrimination affect the dental health of Hispanic children in the U.S. by comparing their dental care experiences to those of non-Hispanic White children, and it aims to understand the differences in the treatments they receive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 21, 2023 |
| Project end | September 20, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $572,261 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DE032675-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909478 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Hispanic children and their families who are experiencing dental health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not of Hispanic descent or do not have children may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of structural racism and discrimination on the oral health of Hispanic children in the United States. It aims to identify differences in dental treatments received by Hispanic children compared to their non-Hispanic White counterparts, focusing on factors such as preventive care and treatment access. The study will utilize both quantitative data analysis and qualitative methods, including community focus groups, to gather insights on these disparities. By examining area-level differences in treatment, the research seeks to highlight how systemic issues affect oral health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dental care practices and policies that address disparities faced by Hispanic children.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into health disparities, this specific focus on structural racism's impact on oral health in Hispanic populations is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramos-Gomez, Francisco J. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Ramos-Gomez, Francisco J.
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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.