The Green Lab
The Green Lab
The Black Men’s Health Study is one of our flagship community‑anchored research efforts. Funded by Genentech and conducted in partnership with Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., this national initiative seeks to better understand and address the health challenges disproportionately affecting African American men. The study focuses on cancer, cardiovascular disease, screening behaviors, mental health, and the social conditions that shape health outcomes.
African American men continue to experience some of the highest rates of cancer incidence and mortality, lower participation in preventive screening, and persistent barriers to accessing quality care. Despite these inequities, few large‑scale, community‑driven studies have centered Black men’s lived experiences.
This study fills that gap by elevating the voices, perspectives, and priorities of Black men—ensuring that the evidence guiding future interventions is culturally grounded and equity‑focused.
The Black Men’s Health Study is designed to:
Data collection is currently underway, with participation from Black men across the United States. The study uses a national survey distributed through fraternity chapters, community networks, and partner organizations.
Once data collection is complete, our team will analyze trends, identify disparities, and share results with both scientific audiences and community stakeholders.
A major focus of this project is translating findings into practical, culturally relevant tools—including educational materials, outreach strategies, and recommendations that can be used within the Kappa network and beyond.
The Black Men’s Health Study is just the beginning. We view this initiative as a model for future community‑based research efforts that are co‑created with communities, equity‑driven, and designed to create lasting impact.
Presented at: 2025 Health Disparities Retreat Moffitt Cancer Center
Authors:
Caseem C. Luck, MS; *Josh N. Otu; Anastasia Murphy, DRPH; **Kevin Sneed, Pharm.D.; **B. Lee Green, PhD
Moffitt Cancer Center, Population Science / Health Outcomes and Behavior
University of South Florida, Taneja College of Pharmacy
Undergraduate Student
What This Study Is About
Black men in the United States experience higher rates of heart disease and cancer, yet they are often underrepresented in health research. The Black Men’s Health Impact Initiative (BMHII) aims to change this by building one of the largest national studies focused specifically on Black men’s health and lived experiences.
Why This Matters
The project seeks to:
By centering Black men’s voices, the study reframes health research as inclusive, community‑anchored, and culturally grounded.
How the Study Works
Researchers are conducting a nationwide survey shared through trusted community networks, including:
The 20–25‑minute survey asks about daily habits, stress, support systems, and personal reflections. Recruitment relies on peer outreach and culturally familiar messengers to ensure participants feel respected and heard.
What We’re Learning So Far
Although data collection is ongoing, early participation shows:
These early lessons highlight the importance of culturally grounded strategies and peer leadership.
What This Means for the Future
BMHII demonstrates how community‑anchored research can transform health equity. By valuing lived experience alongside clinical data, the study:
Ultimately, this work supports a more just and inclusive approach to health research—one that recognizes health communication as a right and elevates community wisdom as essential evidence.
