Reconsidering Community-Engaged Research Through a Syndemic Theoretical Framework: Lessons from COVID-19.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities Research
• Community-Engaged Research

Background:

• Community-engaged research is vital for addressing health disparities in minority communities.
• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates a reevaluation of community-engaged research practices.
• A syndemic framework, which considers synergistic disease interactions within social/environmental contexts, helps explain disproportionate COVID-19 impacts on communities of color.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the application of a syndemic framework in generating discussions on COVID-19 lessons learned.
• To outline the collaborative writing process that resulted from these discussions.
• To identify opportunities for enhancing community-engaged research.

Main Methods:

• The Community Engagement Working Group (CEWG) of the Jackson Heart Study utilized a syndemic framework.
• Discussions focused on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The CEWG is part of a community-based epidemiologic study on cardiovascular disease in African Americans.

Main Results:

• The syndemic framework highlighted key areas for improving community-engaged research.
• Consideration of multiple community dimensions and assets is crucial.
• Applying an intersectionality lens is important for understanding community needs.

Conclusions:

• Community-engaged research should incorporate a syndemic perspective to address complex health issues.
• Acknowledging historical and current trauma is essential when engaging with communities.
• Support systems for community-engaged researchers, particularly those from minoritized groups, need strengthening.