The marginalization and minimization of the experiences of Afro-descendent populations across the Americas is reflected in the underreporting of health factors and outcomes that impact those communities. This research area is focused on: 1) examining factors influencing chronic disease outcomes among Afro-descendent populations in the Americas (particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean), and 2) re-examining how we account for race among the Latine population in the US to interrogate the unique racialized experiences of Afro-Latine people.

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) management in the Dominican Republic requires a multi-level approach. For this work we have been collaborating with community clinics to improve the quality of care of patients with T2D by incorporating psychosocial dimensions to diabetes care.

For this project we explore the the role of stress on prediabetes management and type 2 diabetes progression. Using community-engaged methods with Latine adults, we explored how stress manifests throughout prediabetes management. Through these methods, we drafted a prediabetes-related stress scale for use among Latine adults in the United States.

Climate change affects all individuals, however there communities that are more effected by the impacts of climate change than others. These communities can be defined by location, but also by occupation. For our research, we are working a community partner to understand the impacts of extreme heat exposure on the health of farmworkers, many of whom are season and migrant workers. The primary outcomes interest include cardiovascular health and mental health.