Anal cancer is largely preventable through HPV vaccination and through screening that can detect and treat changes before they progress. Yet anal cancer rates have been rising steadily in the United States for decades, with the greatest impact falling on people with certain health and behavioral risk factors, including people living with HIV and those with a history of receptive anal sex. Despite these effective prevention tools, anal cancer awareness remains low and stigma often keeps people from seeking effective prevention services.
The IMPACT Study, short for Influencer Messaging to Promote Anal Cancer Screening Tests, is a research project funded by the National Cancer Institute and led by Dr. Christopher Wheldon. As part of the study, Dr. Wheldon is developing and testing a social media–based intervention that trains trusted peer influencers to share accurate, stigma-free information about anal cancer prevention with the communities who need it most. The project is being co-designed with community members, clinicians, and social media influencers. The ultimate effectiveness of the intervention will be evaluated to determine whether this approach helps more people learn about and access anal cancer prevention services in their area.
Smoking remains a major cause of preventable illness and death, yet advances in tobacco prevention and treatment have not benefited all communities equally. Emerging adulthood is a critical period when smoking can become more established, as young people navigate changing relationships, identities, and sources of stress. Tobacco use is often closely connected to daily social experiences, including how people cope with adversity, connect with peers, and develop a sense of belonging. Understanding these connections can help explain why smoking persists and what might make quitting more achievable.
The PASS Study (Peers, Adversity, Stress, and Smoking) is a research project funded by the National Cancer Institute and led by Dr. Christopher Wheldon. The study examines how psychosocial stress, social networks, and social identity interact to influence tobacco use during emerging adulthood. By exploring these factors together, PASS seeks to better understand how social relationships and experiences of adversity shape tobacco use. The findings will inform future interventions that address the social and psychological factors that sustain tobacco use, with the long-term goal of reducing tobacco-related illness.</p