Understanding the opioid crisis among underserved African Americans
Research Examining Factors Associated with the Opioid Crisis among Underserved African Americans (REFOCUS)
This study is looking at why more African Americans are experiencing opioid overdoses and aims to understand the cultural and social challenges they face when trying to get help, so we can create better support and treatment options for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883701 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the rising rates of opioid-related overdoses among African Americans, focusing on the unique cultural and generational factors that influence drug use and treatment outcomes in this community. By conducting in-depth interviews with African American adults who use opioids non-medically, the project aims to uncover the social and structural barriers they face in accessing treatment. The findings will help develop culturally tailored interventions to improve treatment initiation and completion rates among this underserved population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American adults who have engaged in nonmedical use of prescription opioids.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as African American or who have not engaged in nonmedical prescription opioid use may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies and interventions specifically designed for African American opioid users.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that culturally tailored interventions can significantly improve treatment outcomes in underserved populations, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stevens-Watkins, Danelle J — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Stevens-Watkins, Danelle J
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.