Body Image After Breast Cancer (Body ABC) Study

• Principal Investigator: Kristin Heron, Ph.D.
• Graduate Student Collaborators: Kayla Pitchford, Meredith Turner, Samantha Rapacon

The purpose of this study is to use utilize quantitative and qualitative methodology to better understand how to improve body image and other mental health related outcomes for racially diverse women breast cancer survivors. Our goal is to advance research in support of furthering the development of interventions to encourage improved psychosocial functioning and behavior change. Women breast cancer survivors across the nation will:

• Complete an online survey that assesses medical and demographic characteristics, quality of life, and body image perceptions
• Participate in semi-structured in-depth interviews to elicit information about biopsychosocial features associated with breast cancer survivorship

Data collection for this study is forthcoming.

Health & Experiences in Real Life (HER Life) Project

• Principal Investigator: Kristin Heron, Ph.D.
• Co-Investigators: Abby Braitman, Ph.D. & Robin Lewis, Ph.D.
• Graduate Student Collaborators: Jennifer Shipley, Kayla Pitchford, Meredith Turner, Charlotte Dawson, Cassidy Sandoval
• Funding Source: National Institute of Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD; R01MD012598)

The purpose of this study is to understand more about diverse young women’s experiences and health behaviors in daily life, with a particular emphasis on eating behaviors. As part of this study, racially diverse sexual minority and heterosexual women from across the U.S. will:

• Complete an online survey about their background, physical and mental well-being, and experiences
• Download an app to their smartphone, which they use to complete brief surveys throughout the day for 2 weeks
• Complete an exit survey at the conclusion of their 2-weeks of participation

Data collection for this study is complete and data analysis is ongoing.

Health and Social Connections in Pregnancy Survey

• Principal Investigators: Kristin Heron, Ph.D. & Natalie Yarish, Ph.D.
• Graduate Student Collaborators: Cassidy Sandoval, Samantha Fitzer, & Rachel Ayala Guzman

The purpose of this study is to understand pregnant adults social connections, health, and health-related behaviors, such as physical activity, during pregnancy. Pregnant adults from across the U.S. will:

• Complete an online survey about their background, social connections, physical activity, and other pregnancy characteristics and health behaviors

Data collection for this study began in Summer 2023.