Study links structural racism to teen brain changes and substance use risk
NCT ID NCT06221839
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This observational study looks at how structural racism—like unequal access to resources—might affect brain structure and decision-making in Puerto Rican teens aged 11 to 14. Researchers will compare teens living in New York and Puerto Rico using interviews and brain scans. The goal is to understand if these social factors increase the risk of substance use, which could guide future prevention efforts.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this research could reveal how societal factors like structural racism influence teen brain development and substance use risk, pointing toward better prevention strategies.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early observational study with only 72 participants, so findings may not apply to all groups. It measures associations, not cause and effect, and may not lead to direct interventions.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Columbia University Irving Medical Center
RECRUITINGNew York, New York, 10032, United States
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University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus
RECRUITINGSan Juan, 00921, Puerto Rico