How can we better understand the connections among genetics, environment, and addiction risk?

Addictive behaviors significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality, as well as result in high costs to society.  Our interdisciplinary team is examining the interplay among substance use disorders, genetic factors, and economic and educational opportunities by merging databases on substance use disorders within the St. Louis metropolitan area with historical data on educational and economic factors.

How can we create a neighborhood environment that has health, social, and economic benefits?

Working with a variety of community partners we are designing and implementing a health impact assessment that will help promote health priorities as part of an ongoing community redevelopment project in Pagedale, Missouri.

Working with a variety of community partners we are designing and implementing a health impact assessment that will help promote health priorities as part of an ongoing community redevelopment project in Pagedale, Missouri.

What can we do to improve nutrition and reduce obesity in an urban community?

Poor nutrition and obesity are significant public health problems that disproportionately affect African-American children, adolescents, and adults living in urban, low-income neighborhoods. During this first phase of this long-term project, we will develop programs to help residents of a St. Louis city neighborhood understand the relationship between fresh fruits and vegetables and disease risk.