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Welcome to the Healthy Families Lab


The Healthy Families Lab is directed by Dr. Patricia N.E. Roberson and is housed in the College of Nursing. Here we examine the impact of marital and family relationships on the mental and physical health of both estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer and diabetes patients in rural Appalachia. By understanding the impact that personal relationships have on patients’ health, we can improve the care and treatment that is provided. Our work is performed on campus at UTK and at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. Currently, we are collecting information from current participants, recruiting more patients, and two publications are underway. Feel free to contact us regarding joining our lab as either a research assistant or as a possible participant, and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.