About Us
Our goal is to advance research that identifies and addresses the social and structural determinants driving disparities in substance use, addiction, and cancer across populations.
Understanding the Social Epidemiology of Substance Use, Addiction, Cancer, and Health Disparities
We conduct rigorous research to understand how psychosocial, policy, and structural factors shape substance use behaviors and contribute to health disparities across the United States. Our work focuses on populations disproportionately affected by substance use and cancer burden, including people living in Appalachia, cancer survivors, and other vulnerable groups. Using both primary data collection and national and international population-based datasets—including repeated cross-sectional and longitudinal cohort studies—we examine how social and structural conditions influence substance use, addiction, emerging nicotine product use, and cancer-related outcomes to inform prevention, public health policy, and regulatory science.
Principal Investigator Mission
I envision a world where rigorous, evidence-based research informs policies and interventions that reduce disparities in substance use, addiction, and cancer, ultimately improving health outcomes for youth, adults, and vulnerable populations. As an Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator, I lead a research program dedicated to advancing this goal through high-quality, interdisciplinary research and collaborative team science. Drawing on my training, research experience, and personal perspective, I strive to create an environment where trainees and staff are supported with the mentorship, resources, and opportunities needed to learn, grow, and develop into successful independent scientists.
Dr. Delvon T. Mattingly, PhD., M.S.
Research Assistant Professor
University of Kentucky College of Medicine
We Are Supported By
