About Us Mission Statement The mission of the Prevention Research Center at Tulane University is to address the physical and social environmental factors influencing the obesity epidemic and its behavioral determinants (physical activity and diet) through participatory research on these factors and ways to modify them; collaboration with community partners and policy-makers; communication about these factors with public health practitioners, policy-makers, and community partners; and training of public health professionals, paraprofessionals, and community members. Our Focus Our focus is on the impact of the physical and social environment on obesity. Learn more here. History The Prevention Research Center at Tulane University has been actively involved in New Orleans health issues since 1998. D uring its original funding cycle, the center focused research on a variety of environmental issues, most significantly reducing childhood lead exposure. That research lead to the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, which resulted in important changes in public policy. Adolescent asthma and mercury exposure were also among the environmental issues addressed as a part of the initial funding cycle. In 2004, the PRC was funded for a new 5-year grant cycle through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For this grant cycle, however, the PRC turned its focus toward the epidemic of obesity, which affects the entire population, but disproportionately affects low-income residents to a higher degree. Our investigators continue to employ creative, community-based, participatory research techniques to create a healthier physical and social environment for New Orleans residents, especially in light of our changed environment. (Photo courtesy Jim Gathany/CDC) | 
