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Chanita
Hughes-Halbert, Ph.D., one of the
country's leading researchers in
health disparities research, has
joined MUSC.
 Dr. Chanita
Hughes-Halbert
Hughes-Halbert
brings extensive experience and a
significant body of novel research
in health disparities for cancer
and other major diseases.
A professor in
the Department of Psychiatry and
Behavioral Sciences, she has been
named to the AT&T
Distinguished Endowed Chair in
Cancer Equity in Hollings Cancer
Center and the SmartState Center
of Economic Excellence Endowed
Chair in Cancer Disparities. She
joins MUSC from the University of
Pennsylvania where she was
director of Community-Based
Research & Health Disparities;
and the Community and Diversity
Initiative at the Abramson Cancer
Center.
"MUSC and
Hollings are strongly committed to
addressing cancer equity issues in
a state with an ethnically diverse
population and, as a result,
marked disparities in disease and
health care outcomes across all
populations," Hughes-Halbert said.
"Hollings is one of the few cancer
centers I've seen with disparities
as such a priority. MUSC has the
potential to serve as a national
model on minority health issues."
Hughes-Halbert
said her work at MUSC and
statewide will include
incorporating basic behavioral
science exploring how patients
make treatment decisions;
developing partnerships statewide
that increase minority access to
care; improving access to
technology that enhances delivery
of care; and raising health
literacy across all populations.
Thomas W. Uhde,
M.D., chair of the Department of
Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences, said Hughes-Halbert has
conducted pioneering research in
biomarker- and genetic testing in
African-American women at
increased risk for cancer,
particularly breast and cervical.
"With the recruitment of Dr.
Hughes-Halbert, South Carolinians
gain the expertise of one of the
foremost experts in advancing
knowledge about the impact of
cultural and ethnic factors in
cancer control and prevention."
Anthony J.
Alberg, Ph.D, associate director
of Cancer Prevention and Control
at Hollings, also praised her
research, noting that it has
spanned an impressive array of
topics, including screening and
prevention, genetic testing and
classification of groups at high
risk for cancer, patient trust in
health care providers, and
survivorship.
"Her
commitment, research acumen, and
leadership skills will advance
cancer disparities research and
have a tangible impact on many
lives of South Carolinians."
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