Adolfo Cuevas

Associate Professor of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Professional overview

Adolfo G. Cuevas, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences at NYU's School of Global Public Health, where he also co-directs the BioSocial Research Initiative (BSRI). His research examines how psychosocial stressors influence health across the lifespan, using epidemiological, psychological, and biological approaches to understand these relationships.

Dr. Cuevas currently leads three NIH-funded projects, totaling nearly $7 million, that investigate the effect of psychosocial stressors on biological dysregulation. These studies investigate how psychosocial stress contributes to biological dysregulation. His first project (R01DK137805; 2024–2029) addresses a key gap in the field by examining how social adversity affects allostatic load across three life course stages and identifying gene expression pathways that link adversity to biological stress. It is also the first study to assess how social relationships—such as kinship and community ties—buffer the impact of social adversity on gene expression and stress physiology. His two additional projects (R01DK137246 and R01MD019251) explore the role of neighborhood and interpersonal stress in obesity across developmental stages, from childhood to older adulthood, with a focus on molecular indicators of stress-related proinflammatory biology that may contribute to adipose tissue formation.

Dr. Cuevas’ work has appeared in leading journals including Annals of Internal Medicine, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, and American Journal of Public Health. It has also been featured by media outlets such as Forbes, USA Today, and NPR’s Code Switch.

In recognition of his contributions to research on stress and health, Dr. Cuevas has received numerous honors, including the Herbert Weiner Early Career Award, the National Minority Quality Forum’s 40 Under 40 Leaders in Minority Health Award, and the Diversity Scholar Award from the Nutrition Obesity Research Center at Harvard University.

Prior to joining NYU, he was the Gerald R. Gill Assistant Professor of Race, Culture, and Society at Tufts University. He earned his PhD and MS in applied psychology from Portland State University and completed postdoctoral training at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Education

PhD, Applied Psychology, Portland State University

MS, Applied Psychology, Portland State University

BA, Psychology, City College of New York, 2010

Certificate, Applied Biostatistics, Harvard Catalyst

Honors and awards

National Institute of Health Loan Repayment-Renewal (2021)

Diversity Scholar Award, Nutrition Obesity Research Center, Harvard University (2019)

National Institute of Health Loan Repayment (2019)

40 Under 40 Leaders in Health, National Minority Quality Forum (2018)

Neubauer Faculty Fellowship, Tufts University (2017)

Portland African American Leadership Fellowship (2013)

National Cancer Institute R25E Summer Research Experience, The University of Texas MD, Anderson’s Cancer Prevention Research Training Program (2012)

Bernard R. Ackerman Foundation Award for Outstanding Scholarship (2010)

Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge Graduate of the Year (2010)

City University of New York Pipeline Fellowship (2009)

City University of New York Search for Education, Elevation, and Knowledge (SEEK) Scholarship (2009)

Psi Chi Honor Society (2009)

Dean’s List Scholar (20082009)

Chi Alpha Epsilon (XAE) Honor Society (2008)

City College of New York’s William Wright Scholarship (2008)

City College of New York Community Service Award (2008)

SEEK Scholarship (2008)

Areas of research and study

Obesity

Psychosocial Stress

Racial/Ethnic Disparities

Publications

Publications

Occupational class and risk of renal cell cancer

Zaitsu, M., Cuevas, A., Trudel-Fitzgerald, C., Takeuchi, T., Kobayashi, Y., & Kawachi, I. (n.d.).

Publication year

2018

Journal title

Health Science Reports

Volume

1

Issue

6

10.1002/hsr2.49

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives: We sought to examine the association between occupational class linked to job stress and the risk of renal cell cancer. To identify potential mediators, we additionally examined whether any observed associations persisted even after controlling for the contribution of stress-related factors (eg, smoking, hypertension, and obesity). Methods: Using nationwide inpatient records (1984 to 2016) from the Rosai Hospital group in Japan, we identified 3316 cases of renal cell cancer (excluding upper tract urothelial cancer) and 168 418 controls. We classified patients' occupational class (blue-collar workers, service workers, professionals, and managers) and cross-classified it by industry type (blue-collar, service, and white-collar) based on a standardized national classification. Unconditional logistic regression with multiple imputation was used for the analyses. Results: A significantly elevated risk of renal cell cancer was found among men in higher occupational class (eg, professionals and managers). The elevated odds in male managers across all industries persisted even after controlling for smoking and alcohol consumption, with the association being more pronounced in blue-collar industries (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.34-1.93). The association appeared to be mainly mediated by hypertension. Conclusion: Occupational class is associated with the risk of renal cell cancer in men, particularly through modifiable risk factors.

Parental education and epigenetic aging in middle-aged and older adults in the United States : A life course perspective

Korous, K. M., Surachman, A., Rogers, C. R., & Cuevas, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Journal title

Social Science and Medicine

Volume

333

10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116173

Abstract

Abstract

Epigenetic aging is one plausible mechanism by which socioeconomic status (SES) contributes to disparities in morbidity and mortality. Although the association between SES and epigenetic aging is well documented, the role of parental education into adulthood remains understudied. We examined (1) if parental education was independently associated with epigenetic aging, (2) whether upward educational mobility buffered this association, and (3) if the benefit of parental education was differentiated by race/ethnicity. Secondary data analysis of a subsample (n = 3875) of Non-Hispanic [NH] Black, Hispanic, NH White, and NH other race participants from the Venous Blood Study within Health and Retirement Study were examined. Thirteen clocks based on DNA methylation of cytosine-phosphate-guanine sites were used to calculate epigenetic aging. Participants' education (personal) and their report of their respective parent's education (parental; mother's and/or father's) were included as independent variables; several potential confounders were also included. Direct associations and interactions between parental and personal education were estimated via survey-weighted generalized linear models; marginal means for epigenetic aging were estimated and contrasts were made between the education subcategories. Analyses were also stratified by race/ethnicity. Our results showed that higher parental education was independently associated with slower epigenetic aging among four clocks, whereas higher personal education magnified this association among four different epigenetic clocks. Participants with the lowest parental and personal education had higher marginal means (i.e., accelerated aging) compared to participants with the highest parental and personal education, and there was little evidence of upward mobility. These associations were more frequently observed among NH White participants, whereas fewer were observed for Hispanic and NH Black participants. Overall, our findings support that early-life circumstances may be biologically embedded through epigenetic aging, which may also limit the biological benefits associated with one's own education.

Parental educational attainment, the superior temporal cortical surface area, and reading ability among american children : A test of marginalization-related diminished returns

Assari, S., Boyce, S., Bazargan, M., Thomas, A., Cobb, R. J., Hudson, D., Curry, T. J., Nicholson, H. L., Cuevas, A., Mistry, R., Chavous, T. M., Caldwell, C. H., & Zimmerman, M. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Children

Volume

8

Issue

5

10.3390/children8050412

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Recent studies have shown that parental educational attainment is associated with a larger superior temporal cortical surface area associated with higher reading ability in children. Simultaneously, the marginalization-related diminished returns (MDRs) framework suggests that, due to structural racism and social stratification, returns of parental education are smaller for black and other racial/ethnic minority children compared to their white counterparts. Purpose: This study used a large national sample of 9–10-year-old American children to investigate associations between parental educational attainment, the right and left superior temporal cortical surface area, and reading ability across diverse racial/ethnic groups. Methods: This was a cross-sectional analysis that included 10,817 9–10-year-old children from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Parental educational attainment was treated as a five-level categorical variable. Children’s right and left superior temporal cortical surface area and reading ability were continuous variables. Race/ethnicity was the moderator. To adjust for the nested nature of the ABCD data, mixed-effects regression models were used to test the associations between parental education, superior temporal cortical surface area, and reading ability overall and by race/ethnicity. Results: Overall, high parental educational attainment was associated with greater superior temporal cortical surface area and reading ability in children. In the pooled sample, we found statistically significant interactions between race/ethnicity and parental educational attainment on children’s right and left superior temporal cortical surface area, suggesting that high parental educational attainment has a smaller boosting effect on children’s superior temporal cortical surface area for black than white children. We also found a significant interaction between race and the left superior temporal surface area on reading ability, indicating weaker associations for Alaskan Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AIAN/NHPI) than white children. We also found interactions between race and parental educational attainment on reading ability, indicating more potent effects for black children than white children. Conclusion: While parental educational attainment may improve children’s superior temporal cortical surface area, promoting reading ability, this effect may be unequal across racial/ethnic groups. To minimize the racial/ethnic gap in children’s brain development and school achievement, we need to address societal barriers that diminish parental educational attainment’s marginal returns for middle-class minority families. Social and public policies need to go beyond equal access and address structural and societal barriers that hinder middle-class families of color and their children. Future research should test how racism, social stratification, segregation, and discrimination, which shape the daily lives of non-white individuals, take a toll on children’s brains and academic development.

Parents’ Perceived Neighborhood Safety and Children’s Cognitive Performance : Complexities by Race, Ethnicity, and Cognitive Domain

Assari, S., Boyce, S., Mistry, R., Thomas, A., Nicholson, H. L., Cobb, R. J., Cuevas, A., Lee, D. B., Bazargan, M., Caldwell, C. H., Curry, T. J., & Zimmerman, M. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Urban Science

Volume

5

Issue

2

10.3390/urbansci5020046

Abstract

Abstract

Background:Aim: To examine racial/ethnic variations in the effect of parents’ subjective neighborhood safety on children’s cognitive performance. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 10,027 children from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. The exposure variable was parents’ subjective neighborhood safety. The outcomes were three domains of children’s cognitive performance: general cognitive performance, executive functioning, and learning/memory. We used mixed-effects regression models for data analysis. Results: Overall, parents’ subjective neighborhood safety was positively associated with children’s executive functioning, but not general cognitive performance or learning/memory. Higher parents’ subjective neighborhood safety had a more positive influence on the executive functioning of non-Hispanic White than Asian American children. Higher parents’ subjective neighborhood safety was associated with higher general cognitive performance and learning/memory for non-White children relative to non-Hispanic White children. Conclusion: The race/ethnicity of children moderates the association between neighborhood safety and cognitive performance. This becomes more complicated, as the patterns seem to differ across ethnicity and cognitive domains. It is unknown whether the observed racial/ethnic variations in the effect of neighborhood safety on cognitive performance are neighborhood characteristics such as residential segregation. Addressing neighborhood inequalities is needed if we wish to reduce racial/ethnic inequities in the cognitive development of children.

Perceived intrinsic, social, and environmental barriers for weight management in older Hispanic/Latino adults with obesity

Dao, M. C., Yu, Z., Maafs-Rodríguez, A., Moser, B., Cuevas, A., Economos, C. D., & Roberts, S. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

Obesity Science and Practice

10.1002/osp4.631

Abstract

Abstract

Background: The burden of obesity and chronic disease is increasing in the older US Hispanic/Latino adult population. There is limited evidence on successful weight management strategies as perceived by this population. Assessing barriers and opportunities for weight management using mixed methods is a robust approach to collect in-depth information that can be applied to the development of well-tailored weight management interventions for this population. Objective: The objective of this study was to assess perceived individual, interpersonal, and environmental factors that influence weight management in older Hispanic/Latino adults. Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study included 23 Hispanic/Latino older (>50y) adults with obesity (BMI >30 kg/m2). Perceived barriers and opportunities for weight management were assessed through validated questionnaires and focus groups. Prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03978416) on 7 June 2019. Results: In this demographically heterogeneous population, language acculturation was generally low, and the frequency of poor dietary behaviors was high. Participants linked financial strain to lower diet quality, as well as anxiety to uncontrolled eating and food cravings. Social support and trust in healthcare professionals were perceived as priorities for healthy eating. Structural and environmental barriers such as affordability and availability of culturally preferred foods were also identified as influences on food choices and eating behavior. Conclusions: This study revealed opportunities for culturally tailored weight management interventions in older Hispanic/Latino adults with obesity. Clinical Trial Registry Number: NCT03978416 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Perceived intrinsic, social, and environmental barriers for weight management in older Hispanic/Latino adults with obesity

Cuevas, A., Dao, M. C., Yu, Z., Maafs???Rodr??guez, A., Moser, B., Cuevas, A. G., Economos, C. D., & Roberts, S. B. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Journal title

Obesity Science & Practice

Volume

9

Issue

2

Page(s)

145

Abstract

Abstract

~

Preparing African American men to make informed prostate cancer screening decisions : Development and pilot testing of an interactive online decision aid

Allen, J. D., Reich, A., Cuevas, A., & Ladin, K. (n.d.).

Publication year

2020

Journal title

JMIR mHealth and uHealth

Volume

8

Issue

5

10.2196/15502

Abstract

Abstract

Background: African American men are at a higher risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer compared to white men. The serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening test has a high risk of false-positive results and overdiagnosis; therefore, it is not routinely recommended. Rather, men are encouraged to make individualized decisions with their medical providers, after being fully informed about its potential benefits, limitations, and risks. Objective: This study aimed to describe the development and pilot testing of an interactive Web-based decision aid (DA; Prostate Cancer Screening Preparation [PCSPrep]) for African American men, designed to promote informed decision making for prostate cancer screening. Methods: Four focus groups (n=33) were conducted to assess men’s reactions to DAs developed in prior studies and gather information to modify the content and format. The pilot test employed a pre-posttest evaluation design. A convenience sample of 41 men aged 45-70 years with no history of prostate cancer was recruited from community settings. Participants completed online surveys before and after using PCSPrep that assessed prostate cancer screening knowledge, decision self-efficacy, decisional conflict, and preparation for decision making. Results: Use of PCSPrep was associated with a significant increase in prostate cancer knowledge (49% vs 62% correct responses; P

Psychosocial Factors and Hypertension : A Review of the Literature

Cuevas, A., Williams, D. R., & Albert, M. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Cardiology Clinics

Volume

35

Issue

2

Page(s)

223-230

10.1016/j.ccl.2016.12.004

Abstract

Abstract

Black people have the highest prevalence of hypertension in the United States. Evidence suggests that psychosocial factors increase the risks for hypertension and help to account for racial differences in this condition. This article reviews research on psychosocial factors and hypertension, and contextualizes the findings within a health disparities framework. A wide range of psychosocial factors contribute to hypertension but understanding remains limited about how these factors relate to each other and accumulate to contribute to hypertension disparities. Future research on psychosocial factors and hypertension needs to enhance the effectiveness of interventions to reduce hypertension risk in ethnic minority communities.

Psychosocial Stress and Overweight and Obesity : Findings from the Chicago Community Adult Health Study

Cuevas, A., Chen, R., Thurber, K. A., Slopen, N., & Williams, D. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2019

Journal title

Annals of Behavioral Medicine

Volume

53

Issue

11

Page(s)

964-974

10.1093/abm/kaz008

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Psychosocial stress has been implicated as a risk factor for overweight and obesity. However, research on psychosocial stressors and overweight and obesity has typically focused on single stressors in isolation, which may overestimate the impact of a specific stressor and fail to describe the role of cumulative stress on overweight and obesity risk. Purpose: This study explores the association between overweight/obesity and cumulative exposure to a wide range of psychosocial stressors, among a multiracial/ethnic sample of adults. Methods: Using secondary data from the Chicago Community Adult Health Study (n = 2,983), we conducted multinomial logistic regression analyses to quantify associations between eight psychosocial stressors, individually and in combination, and measured overweight and obesity, adjusted for sociodemographic factors, alcohol use and smoking. Results: In separated covariate-adjusted models, childhood adversities (odds ratio [OR] = 1.16; confidence interval [CI] = [1.03, 1.30]), acute life events (OR = 1.18; CI = [1.04, 1.34]), financial strain (OR = 1.30; CI = [1.15, 1.47]), and relationship stressors (OR = 1.18; CI = [1.04, 1.35]) were associated with increased odds of obesity. In a model adjusted for all stressors simultaneously, financial strain was the only stressor independently associated with overweight (OR = 1.17; CI = [1.00, 1.36]) and obesity (OR = 1.21; CI = [1.05, 1.39]). Participants with stress exposure in the highest quintile across 2, 3, or ≥4 (compared to no) types of stressors had significantly higher odds of obesity. Conclusions: Multiple types of stressors may be risk factors for obesity, and cumulative exposure to these stressors may increase the odds of obesity. Reducing exposure to stressors at the population level may have the potential to contribute to reducing the burden of obesity.

Race and skin color in latino health : An analytic review

Cuevas, A., Dawson, B. A., & Williams, D. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

American journal of public health

Volume

106

Issue

12

Page(s)

2131-2136

10.2105/AJPH.2016.303452

Abstract

Abstract

We examined 22 articles to compare Black Latinos/as' with White Latinos/as' health and highlight findings and limitations in the literature. We searched 1153 abstracts, from the earliest on record to those available in 2016. We organized the articles into domains grounded on a framework that incorporates the effects of race on Latinos/as' health and well-being: health and wellbeing, immigration, psychosocial factors, and contextual factors. Most studies in this area are limited by self-reported measures of health status, inconsistent use of race and skin color measures, and omission of a wider range of immigration-related and contextual factors. We give recommendations for future research to explain the complexity in the Latino/a population regarding race, and we provide insight into Black Latinos/as experiences.

Racial centrality may be linked to mistrust in healthcare institutions for African Americans

Cuevas, A., & O’Brien, K. (n.d.).

Publication year

2019

Journal title

Journal of health psychology

Volume

24

Issue

14

Page(s)

2022-2030

10.1177/1359105317715092

Abstract

Abstract

Evidence suggests that racial identity is an important component to African Americans’ self-concepts and therefore may be relevant to patients’ trust in healthcare, yet little is known as to how racial identity may influence trust or mistrust. African American adults (N = 220) in the greater Portland, Oregon, area provided survey reports of healthcare-related attitudes and experiences. Those who reported higher racial centrality had lower trust in healthcare institutions. Based on these findings, clinicians employing patient-centered care approaches should recognize racial identity as an important component to patients’ experiences when they seek to deliver equitable care to African American patients.

Racial Discrimination, Religious Coping, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Among African American Women and Men

Ashe, J., Bentley-Edwards, K., Skipper, A., Cuevas, A., Vieytes, C. M., Bah, K., Evans, M. K., Zonderman, A. B., & Waldstein, S. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2024

Journal title

Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities

10.1007/s40615-024-02113-x

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: This cross-sectional study examined whether religious coping buffered the associations between racial discrimination and several modifiable cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors—systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), body mass index (BMI), and cholesterol—in a sample of African American women and men. Methods: Participant data were taken from the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity Across the Life Span study (N = 815; 55.2% women; 30–64 years old). Racial discrimination and religious coping were self-reported. CVD risk factors were clinically assessed. Results: In sex-stratified hierarchical regression analyses adjusted for age, socioeconomic status, and medication use, findings revealed several significant interactive associations and opposite effects by sex. Among men who experienced racial discrimination, religious coping was negatively related to systolic BP and HbA1c. However, in men reporting no prior discrimination, religious coping was positively related to most risk factors. Among women who had experienced racial discrimination, greater religious coping was associated with higher HbA1c and BMI. The lowest levels of CVD risk were observed among women who seldom used religious coping but experienced discrimination. Conclusion: Religious coping might mitigate the effects of racial discrimination on CVD risk for African American men but not women. Additional work is needed to understand whether reinforcing these coping strategies only benefits those who have experienced discrimination. It is also possible that religion may not buffer the effects of other psychosocial stressors linked with elevated CVD risk.

Racial Disparities in Cognitive Function Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults : The Roles of Cumulative Stress Exposures Across the Life Course

Chen, R., Weuve, J., Misra, S., Cuevas, A., Kubzansky, L. D., & Williams, D. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

Journals of Gerontology - Series A Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences

Volume

77

Issue

2

Page(s)

357-364

10.1093/gerona/glab099

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Racial disparities in cognitive function are well documented, but factors driving these disparities remain underexplored. This study aims to quantify the extent to which cumulative stress exposures across the life course explain Black-White disparities in executive function and episodic memory in middle-aged and older adults. Method: Data were drawn from the 2004-2006 wave of the Midlife Development in the United States Study (MIDUS 2) and the MIDUS Refresher study (N = 5,947; 5,262 White and 685 Black). Cumulative stress exposures were assessed by 10 stressor domains (ie, childhood stress, stressful life events in adulthood, financial stress, work psychological stress, work physical stress, work-family conflicts, neighborhood disorder, relationship stress, perceived inequality, and perceived discrimination). Cognitive function was assessed using the Brief Test of Adult Cognition by Telephone. Marginal structural models were used to quantify the proportion of the effect of race/ethnicity status on cognitive function mediated through cumulative stress exposures. Results: After adjusting for age, sex, and sample, on average, Black participants had lower levels of executive function (difference:-0.83 SD units, 95% CI:-0.91,-0.75) and episodic memory (difference:-0.53 SD units, 95% CI:-0.60,-0.45) scores than White participants. Cumulative stress exposures accounted for 8.4% of the disparity in executive function and 13.2% of the disparity in episodic memory. Conclusions: Cumulative stress exposures across the life course explained modest proportions of Black-White disparities in cognitive function in this large cross-sectional study.

Reply to Letter to the Editor : ‘Discrimination and systemic inflammation: A critical review and synthesis’

Cuevas, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Brain, Behavior, and Immunity

Volume

94

Page(s)

470

10.1016/j.bbi.2021.02.024

Abstract

Abstract

~

Representation of Hispanic Patients in Clinical Trials for Respiratory Failure : A Systematic Review

Harlan, E. A., Malley, K., Quiroga, G., Mubarak, E., Lama, P., Schutz, A., Cuevas, A., Hough, C. L., Iwashyna, T. J., Armstrong-Hough, M., & Valley, T. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Critical Care Explorations

Volume

7

Issue

1

Page(s)

e1193

10.1097/CCE.0000000000001193

Abstract

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Hispanic individuals comprise one-fifth of the U.S. population and Hispanic patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) experience higher odds of death compared with non-Hispanic White patients. Representation of Hispanic patients in clinical trials for respiratory failure is critical to address this inequity. We conducted a systematic review to examine the inclusion of Hispanic patients in randomized controlled trials for AHRF and assessed language as a potential barrier to enrollment. DATA SOURCES: National Library of Medicine PubMed, Elsevier Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases through January 2024. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized controlled trials assessing AHRF interventions enrolling U.S. patients receiving mechanical ventilation, noninvasive mechanical ventilation, or high-flow nasal cannula were included. The systematic review was registered prospectively through PROSPERO (CRD42023437828). DATA EXTRACTION: Two authors independently screened studies and extracted data for each included study. DATA SYNTHESIS: Ninety-four trials published from 1975 to 2023 were included; 33.0% (n = 31) of studies reported ethnicity, and 11.2% of participants in studies reporting race or ethnicity (1,320/11,780) were identified as Hispanic. The proportion of Hispanic-identified participants was significantly lower than the U.S. Hispanic population from 1996 to 2019 (p < 0.01). Starting in 2020, the proportion of Hispanic-identified participants was significantly higher than the U.S. population (27.8% vs. 19.1%; p < 0.01). Two studies (4.9%) reporting race or ethnicity excluded non-English speaking participants; the remainder did not specify language requirements for enrollment. CONCLUSIONS: Hispanic-identified individuals were underrepresented in trials for AHRF until 2020 when Hispanic patient representation increased during COVID-19. Exclusion of participants who do not speak English may represent a barrier to trial enrollment.

Safeguarding SNAP as an Effective Antihunger Program : Myths and Potential Harms of Adding Diet Quality as a Core Objective

Krobath, D. M., Lawrence, J. A., Chrisinger, B. W., & Cuevas, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

American journal of public health

Volume

115

Issue

1

Page(s)

37-41

10.2105/AJPH.2024.307863

Abstract

Abstract

~

Skin Tone, Discrimination, and Allostatic Load in Middle-Aged and Older Puerto Ricans

Cuevas, A., Abuelezam, N. N., Chan, S. W., Carvalho, K., Flores, C., Wang, K., Mattei, J., Tucker, K. L., & Falcon, L. M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Psychosomatic Medicine

Volume

83

Issue

7

Page(s)

805-812

10.1097/PSY.0000000000000969

Abstract

Abstract

Objective A growing body of research suggests that skin tone may be a health risk indicator for Hispanics. Black and darker-skinned Hispanics have worse mental and physical outcomes than White and lighter-skinned Hispanics. Discrimination exposure has been implicated as a risk factor that may explain the association between skin tone and health. However, there is scant research examining the interrelationship between skin tone, discrimination, and health, particularly among Puerto Ricans. We examine the interrelationships between two measures of skin tone, two measures of discrimination, and allostatic load (AL) among Puerto Rican adults. Methods Using cross-sectional data from wave 3 of the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study (n = 882), we examined the indirect association (IA) of skin tone on physiological dysregulated systems, also known as AL, through major discrimination and everyday discrimination. We tested these associations using two distinct measures of skin tone: interviewer-ascribed skin tone and spectrophotometer-measured skin tone. Results Interviewer-ascribed skin tone was indirectly associated with AL through major discrimination (IA = 0.03, 95% confidence interval = 0.004 to 0.06). However, there was no evidence of an IA of interviewer-ascribed skin tone on AL through everyday discrimination (IA = -0.01, 95% confidence interval = -0.03 to 0.01). In addition, there was no evidence that spectrophotometer-measured skin tone was indirectly associated with AL through major discrimination or everyday discrimination. Conclusions The sociocultural significance of skin tone may affect how Puerto Ricans are perceived and treated by others, which can, in turn, have physiological health consequences. Future research is needed to replicate these findings and examine the interrelationship between skin tone, discrimination, and other health outcomes.

Socially Assigned Race and the Health of Racialized Women and Their Infants

Abuelezam, N. N., Cuevas, A., Galea, S., & Hawkins, S. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

Health Equity

Volume

6

Issue

1

Page(s)

845-851

10.1089/heq.2022.0079

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: While historically most public health research has relied upon self-identified race as a proxy for experiencing racism, a growing literature recognizes that socially assigned race may more closely align with racialized lived experiences that influence health outcomes. We aim to understand how women's health behaviors, health outcomes, and infant health outcomes differ for women socially assigned as nonwhite when compared with women socially assigned as white in Massachusetts. Methods: Using data from the Massachusetts Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) Reactions to Race module, we documented the associations between socially assigned race (white vs. nonwhite) and women's health behaviors (e.g., initiation of prenatal care, breastfeeding), women's health outcomes (e.g., gestational diabetes, depression before pregnancy), and infant health outcomes (e.g., preterm birth, low birth weight [LBW]). Multivariable models adjusted for age, marital status, education level, nativity, receipt of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) assistance during pregnancy, infant sex, plurality, and gestational age. Additional models adjusted for treatment by race, how often one thinks about race, and nativity. Results: Women socially assigned as nonwhite had higher odds of breastfeeding (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.86, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.54 to 2.25), lower odds of consuming alcohol (AOR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.31), and lower odds of smoking (AOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.24 to 0.38) compared with those socially assigned as white. However, women socially assigned as nonwhite had higher odds of reporting gestational diabetes (AOR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.49 to 2.61). Mothers socially assigned as nonwhite also had higher odds of giving birth to an LBW (AOR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.29 to 2.14) and small-for-gestational age (AOR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.19 to 1.80) infant compared with women socially assigned as white. Discussion: In comparison with women socially assigned as white, we observed poorer health outcomes for women who were socially assigned nonwhite despite engaging in more beneficial pregnancy-related health behaviors. Socially assigned race can provide an important context for women's experiences that can influence their health and the health of their infants.

Sociodemographic correlates of cancer fatalism and the moderating role of religiosity : Results from a nationally-representative survey

Leyva, B., Nguyen, A. B., Cuevas, A., Taplin, S. H., Moser, R. P., & Allen, J. D. (n.d.).

Publication year

2020

Journal title

Journal of Prevention and Intervention in the Community

Volume

48

Issue

1

Page(s)

29-46

10.1080/10852352.2019.1617521

Abstract

Abstract

In general, it has been found that cancer fatalism is negatively associated with important cancer prevention and control behaviors, whereas religiosity is positively associated with these behaviors. Yet, the notion that religiosity gives rise to fatalistic beliefs that may discourage health behaviors is deeply ingrained in the public health literature. In addition, racial/ethnic group membership is associated with higher reports of cancer fatalism, though this association may be confounded by socioeconomic status (SES). A better understanding of the relationships between racial/ethnic group membership, SES, and religiosity may contribute to the development of effective interventions to address cancer fatalism and improve health behaviors. In this study, we examined associations between racial/ethnic group membership, SES, and cancer fatalism as the outcome. In addition, we tested whether religiosity (as measured by religious service attendance) moderated these relationships.

Stressful Life Events and Obesity in the United States : The Role of Nativity and Length of Residence

Cuevas, A., Stanton, M. V., Carvalho, K., Eckert, N., Ortiz, K., Assari, S., & Ransome, Y. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

American Journal of Health Promotion

Volume

36

Issue

1

Page(s)

190-193

10.1177/08901171211034410

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose: Obesity is a public health issue in the United States (US), that disproportionately affects marginalized group members. Stressful life events (SLE) have been implicated as an obesogenic risk factor. However, there is scant research examining of the role of nativity status and length of residence in the relationship between SLE and obesity. Design: Cross-sectional survey. Setting: Wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions. Sample: A total of 34,653 participants were included in these analyses, of whom 10,169 (29.39%) had obesity. Measures: Obesity (measured using body mass index), stressful life events, race/ethnicity, gender, educational attainment, family income, marital status, current smoking status, and alcohol abuse. Analysis: Weighted logistic regression analysis. Results: A total of 10,169 (29.39%) had obesity. There was a significant interaction between SLE and nativity status/length of residence [F (3, 34,642) = 60.50, p < 0.01]. Based on stratified analyses, SLE were associated with greater odds of obesity for US-born individuals (OR = 1.07; 95% CI [1.05, 1.08]) and foreign-born individuals living in the US for ≥ 20 years (OR = 1.17; 95% CI [1.10, 1.25]). There was no evidence that SLE were associated with greater odds of obesity for foreign-born individuals living in the US 20 years. Further research is needed to understand the pathways that may link SLE to obesity among these groups.

Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among Indigenous Australian children aged 0-3 years and association with sociodemographic, life circumstances and health factors

Thurber, K. A., Long, J., Salmon, M., Cuevas, A., & Lovett, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2020

Journal title

Public Health Nutrition

Volume

23

Issue

2

Page(s)

295-308

10.1017/S1368980019001812

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: To explore beverage intake and associations between sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake and sociodemographic, life circumstances, health and well-being factors in a national cohort of Indigenous children.Design: We calculated prevalence ratios for any SSB consumption across exposures, using multilevel Poisson regression (robust variance), adjusted for age group and remoteness. A key informant focus group contextualised these exploratory findings.Setting: Diverse settings across Australia.Participants: Families of Indigenous children aged 0-3 years, in the Longitudinal Study of Indigenous Children.Results: Half (50·7 %, n 473/933) of children had ever consumed SSB at survey, increasing from 29·3 % of 0-12-month-olds to 65·7 % of 18-36-month-olds. SSB consumption prevalence was significantly lower in urban and regional v. remote areas, and in families experiencing socio-economic advantage (area-level advantage, caregiver employed, financial security), better life circumstances (caregiver social support, limited exposure to stressors) and caregiver well-being (non-smoking, social and emotional well-being, physical health). SSB consumption prevalence was significantly lower among those engaged with health services (adequate health-service access, regular prenatal check-ups), except SSB consumption prevalence was higher among those who received home visits from an Aboriginal Health Worker compared with no home visits. Key informants highlighted the role of water quality/safety on SSB consumption.Conclusions: A substantial proportion of Indigenous children in this sample consumed SSB from an early age. Health provider information needs to be relevant to the context of families' lives. Health system strategies must be paired with upstream strategies, such as holistic support programmes for families, reducing racism and improving water quality.

Technical report : an online international weight control registry to inform precision approaches to healthy weight management

Roberts, S. B., Das, S. K., Sayer, R. D., Caldwell, A. E., Wyatt, H. R., Mehta, T. S., Gorczyca, A. M., Oslund, J. L., Peters, J. C., Friedman, J. E., Chiu, C. Y., Greenway, F. L., Donnelly, J. E., Dao, M. C., Cuevas, A., Affuso, O., Wilkinson, L. L., Thomas, D., Al-Ozairi, E., … Hill, J. O. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

International Journal of Obesity

Volume

46

Issue

9

Page(s)

1728-1733

10.1038/s41366-022-01158-4

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Personalizing approaches to prevention and treatment of obesity will be a crucial aspect of precision health initiatives. However, in considering individual susceptibility to obesity, much remains to be learned about how to support healthy weight management in different population subgroups, environments and geographical locations. Subjects/methods: The International Weight Control Registry (IWCR) has been launched to facilitate a deeper and broader understanding of the spectrum of factors contributing to success and challenges in weight loss and weight loss maintenance in individuals and across population groups. The IWCR registry aims to recruit, enroll and follow a diverse cohort of adults with varying rates of success in weight management. Data collection methods include questionnaires of demographic variables, weight history, and behavioral, cultural, economic, psychological, and environmental domains. A subset of participants will provide objective measures of physical activity, weight, and body composition along with detailed reports of dietary intake. Lastly, participants will be able to provide qualitative information in an unstructured format on additional topics they feel are relevant, and environmental data will be obtained from public sources based on participant zip code. Conclusions: The IWCR will be a resource for researchers to inform improvements in interventions for weight loss and weight loss maintenance in different countries, and to examine environmental and policy-level factors that affect weight management in different population groups. This large scale, multi-level approach aims to inform efforts to reduce the prevalence of obesity worldwide and its associated comorbidities and economic impacts. Trial registration: NCT04907396 (clinicaltrials.gov) sponsor SB Roberts; Tufts University IRB #13075.

The Adaptation and Evaluation of a Pilot Mindfulness Intervention Promoting Mental Health in Student Athletes

Evers, A. G., Somogie, J. A., Wong, I. L., Allen, J. D., & Cuevas, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Journal of Clinical Sport Psychology

Volume

15

Issue

3

Page(s)

206-226

10.1123/JCSP.2019-0083

Abstract

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a pilot mindfulness program for student athletes by assessing mental health, mindfulness ability, and perceived stress before and after the intervention. The mindfulness program was adapted from a program developed at the University of Southern California. The four-session intervention taught the basics of mindfulness, self-care skills, and guided meditations. Participants completed surveys before and after the interven-tion. Mindfulness ability was assessed with the Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale, mental health was assessed with a modified Short Form Health Survey, and stress was assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale. After the intervention, participants reported improvement in mindfulness ability, t(28) = −2.61, p = .014, mental health, t(28) = −2.87, p = .008, and a trending improvement in perceived stress, t(28) = 1.86, p = .073. A short mindfulness program may be effective for improving mental health and mindfulness ability in collegiate student athletes.

The Association between Perceived Discrimination and Allostatic Load in the Boston Puerto Rican Health Study

Cuevas, A., Wang, K., Williams, D. R., Mattei, J., Tucker, K. L., & Falcon, L. M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2019

Journal title

Psychosomatic Medicine

Volume

81

Issue

7

Page(s)

659-667

10.1097/PSY.0000000000000715

Abstract

Abstract

Objective Perceived discrimination is a risk factor for poor health among ethnic and racial minority groups. However, few studies have examined the association between major lifetime and everyday perceived discrimination and allostatic load (AL), a preclinical indicator of disease. We examine the association between two measures of discrimination and AL among Puerto Rican adults. Methods Using primarily wave 3 data from the longitudinal Boston Puerto Rican Health Study, we examined the association between major lifetime and everyday perceived discrimination and AL (multisystem dysregulation of 11 physiological components) among Puerto Rican adults residing in the Boston metro area (N = 882). Five models were tested using multivariable regression. The final model adjusted for demographic factors, migration factors, socioeconomic status and work history, health behaviors/risk factors, and depressive symptom. Results Respondents had a M (SD) AL score of 5.11 (1.76; range = 0-11). They had an average score of 0.21 (0.42) for major lifetime perceived discrimination (0-3) and 0.29 (0.49) for everyday perceived discrimination (0-3). In a fully adjusted model, major lifetime perceived discrimination was associated with greater AL (b = 0.56; 95% CI = 0.19 to 0.92), whereas greater everyday perceived discrimination was marginally, but not significantly, associated with lower AL (b =-0.42; 95% CI =-0.87 to 0.04). Conclusions Perceived discrimination remains a common stressor and may be a determinant of AL for Puerto Ricans, although the type of perceived discrimination may have differing effects. Further research is needed to better understand the ways in which major lifetime and everyday perceived discrimination operate to effect physiological systems among Puerto Ricans.

The Association Between Post-Traumatic Stress and Depressive Symptoms Among Older Puerto Ricans in Boston : How Does Loneliness Matter?

Wang, K., Zhang, A., Cuevas, A., De Fries, C. M., Hinton, L., & Falcón, L. M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

Journal of Aging and Health

Volume

34

Issue

6-8

Page(s)

786-793

10.1177/08982643211064123

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the association between post-traumatic stress and depression and whether such an association differs by level of loneliness among older Puerto Ricans. Methods: Data were collected from 304 Puerto Ricans aged 60 and above living in the Greater Boston area who responded to questionnaires. We used ordinary least squares regression to examine the association between post-traumatic stress, loneliness, and depressive symptoms. Results: Post-traumatic stress was significantly associated with higher levels of depression. The association between post-traumatic stress and depression was stronger for those experiencing a higher degree of loneliness. Discussion: In working with older Puerto Ricans experiencing post-traumatic stress, it is important for mental health professionals to incorporate the assessment of loneliness and to prevent and reduce comorbid depression by addressing loneliness through improving social skills, enhancing social support, and reducing maladaptive social cognition.