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Research

• Research. Prevention. Community.
• Research Foci
• Current Research Projects
• Past Research Projects
• List of All Grants Sorted by PI or Grant Name

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Research. Prevention. Community.

The Department of Social and Preventive Medicine (SPM) has a long history of research in the areas of chronic disease epidemiology and prevention. Research by departmental faculty include work on the epidemiology of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. Factors such as nutrition, physical activity, occupation, environment, genetics, stress, and socioeconomic factors are examined. This research is conducted in specific populations including women, occupational cohorts and residents of geographic regions as well as in general population samples. Studies focus on wellness, clinical trials of disease prevention and on biologic and environmental factors that may modify disease incidence. The Department's active research program and existing data sets and biologic specimen repository serve as a rich source for research investigation and collaboration. Integrated within this research environment is the education of future generations of research scientists and public health officials in epidemiology, community health and prevention.

Research Foci

Chronic Disease Epidemiology

Several ongoing studies in the department are focused on a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying observed epidemiologic associations. For example, studies of diet, alcohol and genetic factors in relation to breast cancer and breast tumor characteristics will help provide insight into previously observed associations between alcohol and breast cancer risk. Similarly, studies are ongoing regarding genetic pathways important in inflammation and the development of diabetes. Ongoing studies are looking at the major causes of morbidity and mortality in postmenopausal women. Research includes examination of possible links between osteoporosis and periodontal disease, and determinants of oxidative stress among premenopausal women. Using imaging techniques to detect early signs of cardiovascular changes, the etiology of that disease is being investigated. Other studies involve factors related to occupation and environment in relation to morbidity and mortality.

Disease Prevention

Several studies involve improving the health and wellness of workers in Western New York, evaluation of intensive medical treatments for severe obesity, and breast cancer prevention among high risk postmenopausal women.

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revised 12/28/06