The Division of General Internal Medicine and Population Science is engaged in research aimed at improving health outcomes at both individual and population levels.
Our division’s research focuses on the prevention and management of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and addiction. The division is also dedicated to advancing health equity, with a strong emphasis on addressing health disparities in disadvantaged populations.
Innovative research methodologies are at the core of our work, including community-engaged research, health system interventions, behavioral and lifestyle studies, and dissemination and implementation science. These efforts ensure that research findings directly translate into real-world health improvements, benefiting both patients and communities.
This multifaceted research approach, supported by prestigious grants from institutions like the National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, positions us as a leader in tackling some of the most pressing public health challenges of today.
Through these areas of focus, we continue to lead the way in advancing health science, improving patient care, and addressing critical public health challenges. Our integrated approach combines cutting-edge research with compassionate care to create a healthier future for all.
Chronic Disease Prevention and Management
Our division is deeply engaged in the research and treatment of chronic diseases that represent the leading causes of morbidity and mortality.
Cardiovascular Disease
We are committed to understanding the risk factors and preventive measures for heart disease, with a focus on improving outcomes for high-risk populations.
Diabetes and Obesity
Our research seeks to develop interventions that reduce the prevalence and complications associated with diabetes and obesity, particularly in underserved communities.
Cancer
Through our collaboration with the UAB O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, we contribute to research in cancer prevention, early detection, and control, with a focus on improving health disparities.
Addiction and Pain
We are advancing research on the treatment of addiction and chronic pain management, to improve the quality of life for patients and addressing the opioid epidemic.
COVID-19
Our division has played an active role in studying the impacts of COVID-19 and developing strategies for prevention and long-term care.
Health Equity and Priority Populations
We are committed to advancing health equity by addressing the unique challenges faced by disadvantaged groups.
High-Risk Populations
We are dedicated to understanding and addressing the disproportionate health burdens faced by groups who are at high-risk of developing chronic diseases by designing tailored interventions to improve outcomes.
Rural and Low Resource Communities
We prioritize research and outreach in rural and low resource areas, where access to healthcare services is often limited. Our goal is to reduce healthcare disparities and improve access to care.
Disadvantaged Populations
Our work includes addressing the social determinants of health—such as income, education, and housing—that contribute to health inequities. We focus on creating sustainable interventions that support healthier living for disadvantaged populations.
Innovative Research Methodologies
We employ advanced research methods to ensure our findings translate into real-world applications. These methodologies include:
Community-Engaged Research
We collaborate directly with communities to make sure our interventions are tailored to address the specific needs of the populations we serve. This approach helps bridge the gap between research and practice.
Health System Interventions
We design and implement interventions within healthcare systems to improve patient care, with a focus on streamlining processes, enhancing patient outcomes, and reducing costs.
Behavioral and Lifestyle Interventions
Our researchers explore how lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can prevent and manage chronic diseases. These studies provide critical insights into behavioral health interventions that promote long-term wellness.
Dissemination and Implementation Science
We prioritize translating research into practice, ensuring that healthcare innovations are effectively implemented in real-world settings and benefit diverse populations.