Research
Southwest Institute For Health Disparities Research
To address the substantial health disparities that exist in Southern New Mexico and the U.S./Mexican Border Region, New Mexico State University has recently established the Southwest Institute for Health Disparities Research within the College of Health and Social Services. The purpose of the Institute is to assist faculty to secure external funding and conduct research which has the potential to reduce health disparities and improve minority health, provide health related community outreach programming, provide training for researchers, lay groundwork for additional funded research, and attract highly qualified minority faculty and graduate students to NMSU. Additionally, the Institute serves as the coordinating office for all scholarly activities within the College of Health and Social Services.
Eye on Research
Faculty and graduate students are involved in the interdiscplinary study of border health, health disparities, and factors affecting health at all ages including the use of tobacco. An emerging focus is on the cultural and socio-economic factors affecting health including studies related to addiction, obesity, diabetes prevention, chonic disease mamgement, behavioral health, sexuality, and the long term impact of health lifestyles upon longevity. Other studies have investigated patterns of domestic violence and drug abuse in families and communities.