Return to Research Areas at ORI

Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death in older women.  However, most studies of the causes of heart disease and ways to prevent it have been conducted exclusively on men.

ORI scientists have been plugging this gap by studying the effects of a program for women with type 2 diabetes designed to reduce their risk for heart disease.  This program encouraged more Mediterranean-style eating, and an all-round healthier life-style.  Women who went through the program reduced their risk of heart disease. 

Our work on heart disease is just the latest development in ORI’s long history of studying ways to help people prevent or manage chronic illness.  We benefited from ORI scientists’ previous work helping people with diabetes, and in the future we will add breast cancer to our prevention and management efforts. 

Current Grants

Methods for Improved Diet & Exercise Measurement (Portions)

The primary goal of this project is to improve dietary portion size and physical activity intensity measurement among older, overweight adults, using innovative, interactive computer technology and state-of-the-art statistical methods.

Principal Investigator: Deborah Toobert

Co-Investigators: Lisa Strycker, Sarah Hampson, Sue Duncan, Terry Duncan

Project Period: 6/1/06 - 4/30/10

National Cancer Institute

CHD Lifestyle Modification for Latinas with Diabetes (Viva Bien)

Researchers are evaluating a multiple risk factor coronary heart disease (CHD) intervention (found to be effective among postmenopausal Anglo women with type 2 diabetes) with postmenopausal Hispanic women in a large health plan serving minority populations.

Principal Investigator: Deborah Toobert

Co-Investigators: Lisa Strycker and Manuel Barrera

Project Period: 9/25/05 - 8/31/10

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Linking Self-Management and Primary Care for Diabetes (Linkbase)
Subcontract with Kaiser Permanente
This study refines and experimentally evaluates a practical, computer-assisted behavior change intervention to facilitate dietary and physical activity practices for persons with diabetes.
Principal Investigator: Deborah Toobert

Co-Investigator: Lisa Strycker
Project Period: 1/1/01 - 12/31/11
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases