News and Stories

Associate Professor Veronica Irvin discusses her behavioral science research at Oregon State University, including breast cancer screening, environmental health, well water safety, and supporting underserved communities.

As part of her work, Bilkisu Abubakar led outreach clinics for female sex workers in Nigeria and implemented liquid-based cytology and HPV DNA testing — two innovative approaches to improve cervical cancer screening and early detection in vulnerable populations.

Women in high-pollution areas face significantly higher breast cancer risk, College of Health research shows. A 10ppb increase in nitrogen dioxide from vehicle emissions equals 3% higher incidence—9,500 preventable U.S. cases yearly.

The study is the largest of its kind in the U.S. — and the world — to look at how air pollution may be connected to breast cancer. Using data from five large research studies, the team found that certain pollutants, such as nitrogen dioxide, were linked to a small increase in breast cancer overall.

The College of Health at Oregon State University is accelerating research innovation with a strategic focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, AI applications, and translating discoveries into real-world health solutions that benefit communities most in need.

The study of 1,500+ adults ages 30-70 found that those in the upper 25% of social media usage frequency were more than twice as likely to experience loneliness.

Their participation highlights the College of Health’s national leadership in research translation and its ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for children and families. The ASPIRE Center exemplifies how collaborative, cross-disciplinary research can generate innovative, evidence-based solutions to protect children and promote healthy families and communities.

Spokane Zephyr soccer player Hailey Coll earned a Humanitarian of the Year nomination while pursuing her MPH and volunteering 20 hours weekly with River City Youth. From leading bike programs to running food banks, she proves public health impact happens everywhere.

Researchers led by Jessica Gorman are creating inclusive cancer care programs that address barriers faced by LGBTQ+ survivors, young adults, and underserved communities to improve outcomes for all.

Associate Professor Jessica Gorman's inclusive cancer care research was featured in the Office of Institutional Diversity's 2025 State of Inclusive Excellence at Oregon State.

Double alumna Dr. Alexandra Szarabajko, MPH '21 and PhD '22, has been honored with the Teaching Excellence Award from South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities.  

COH researchers Hyosin Dawn Kim and Brian Primack secured top presentation awards at the 8th Annual Global Public Health Conference in Bangkok, showcasing research on social media's impact on mental health.