Helping Everyone Achieve a LifeTime of Health - Future Addiction Scientist Training Program Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Addiction science
• Health equity research
• Health disparities

Background:

• Substance use disorders (ATOD) contribute significantly to major diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions.
• Social and structural inequities exacerbate ATOD-related health risks, particularly in marginalized communities.
• A diverse scientific workforce is crucial for addressing ATOD health disparities, yet underrepresentation remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To train future scholars in addiction science and health equity through the HEALTH-FAST program.
• To reduce ATOD-related health disparities by fostering a diverse research workforce.
• To provide a model for research education programs aimed at underrepresented groups.

Main Methods:

• The Helping Everyone Achieve a LifeTime of Health-Future Addiction Scientist Training (HEALTH-FAST) program trained 8 Doctoral Scholars, 2 Postdoctoral Fellows, and 6 Early-Stage Investigators from 2021-2023.
• Trainees included diverse participants: 44% Black, 19% Hispanic, 63% women, and 37.5% from disadvantaged or first-generation backgrounds.
• The program involved research education, professional development seminars, and ATOD research presentations.

Main Results:

• Significant gains in research knowledge (80% for Doctoral Scholars, 40% for others), self-efficacy (37% and 30%), and preparation (47% and 35%) were observed.
• Scholars reported high satisfaction with program content and overall satisfaction (9-10 out of 10).
• By April 2025, scholars produced 160 peer-reviewed publications and secured 41 grants.

Conclusions:

• The HEALTH-FAST program effectively trained historically excluded scholars in addiction science and health equity.
• The program demonstrates success in diversifying the ATOD research workforce.
• HEALTH-FAST serves as a model for research education to address ATOD-related health disparities.