Social and Cultural Influences on cardiovascular risk factors in South Asians

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Investigator: Alka Kanaya, MD
Sponsor: Northwestern University

Location(s): United States

Description

This study will investigate the links between social networks and cardiovascular disease risk factors in South Asian immigrants, who are the second fastest growing ethnic group in the US and one with disparate rates of coronary heart disease.  The research team will use quantitative and qualitative methods to measure social network characteristics and how these interact with culture and immigration to influence diet, exercise, weight, and blood pressure.  The eventual goal of this research is to understand how family members, friends, and other social relationships can be leveraged to improve the reach and impact of cardiovascular disease prevention interventions.