Research
Objectives
The Health Equity Research Group (HERG) led by Dr. Irene Tamí-Maury is a think tank committed to addressing the unequal burden of cancer and other chronic conditions among vulnerable populations, including sexual and gender minority groups, individuals with HIV, racial/ethnic minorities, and other underserved communities. We conduct research on a variety of topics related to cancer prevention and control, including tobacco and nicotine addiction. Our mission is to generate new knowledge, inform interventions, and promote health equity. We hope our webpage will serve as a valuable resource for individuals, students, healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers who are interested in promoting health equity in underserved areas of the US, as well as in low- and middle-income countries.
Projects
SmokefreeSGM, A Text-based Program for Sexual and Gender Minority Smokers
SmokefreeSGM is a cessation intervention designed by and for assisting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) with their quitting efforts. The program has been tailored to the needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ smokers with input from tobacco specialists, current and former LGBTQ+ smokers, and leading experts in behavioral health, epidemiology, and biostatistics. the pilot test of SmokefreeSGM showed encouraging results in terms of engagement, usability, and acceptability. We are now exited to launch the pilot test of the Spanish version of the program.
Our findings from the pilot test of the English version of SmokefreeSGM
The UTHealth PRIDE Study
The UTHealth PRIDE Study is an annual community-need assessment aimed at understanding the conditions and risk factors linked to tobacco use and nicotine addiction among LGBTQ+ groups in Texas. This is our 10th year collecting data that has guided the development of prevention and control strategies for reducing health disparities among LGBTQ+ groups in Texas. Your voice matters, and we want to hear it through The UTHealth PRIDE survey. By becoming a study participant, you'll contribute to vital research that will shape tailored interventions and support for our LGBTQ+ community. Together, let's create a healthier future.
Decision-T
Decision-T is a smartphone application for healthcare professionals interested in providing smoking prevention and cessation services to their patients. Introducing our revolutionary smartphone application (app) designed exclusively for healthcare professionals passionate about offering smoking prevention and cessation services to their patients. We pilot-tested it among a pool of providers including HIV care providers, Cancer care providers, Primary care providers, and Dental care providers. For HIV care providers, the app provides the effectiveness, efficacy, and overall ease of use that a healthcare provider requires to navigate the app successfully. We are in the process of writing a manuscript to share other findings with the scientific community.
VapeDownTXT: Comin soon...
Are you ready to regain control and break free from the grip of vaping addiction? Join our exciting upcoming text-based intervention study designed specifically for adults like you. Participate virtually from the comfort of your own phone and received daily texts tailored to support your journey towards a vape-free life. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a groundbreaking study shaping the future of vaping cessation for adults.
