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Sleep, circadian rhythms and human health

The endogenous circadian clock represents the fundamental adaptation to the 24-hour day-night cycle and regulates a wide array of physiologic functions and behaviors. Sleep deficiency and circadian disruptions have been linked to a wide range of chronic conditions, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer. The research of our lab focuses on conducting epidemiological research to understand the health effects of sleep and diurnal patterns of rest-activity and eating-fasting cycles. In addition, we seek to elucidate the biological mechanisms mediating the adverse health effects associated with sleep deficiency and circadian disruption, particularly focusing on the human metabolome. 

Neighborhood environment and health disparities

Health disparities across socioeconomic positions have been well documented and cannot be fully explained by individual-level socioeconomic status. Macroenvironmental factors, such as neighborhood characteristics, have been increasingly recognized as potentially powerful determinants of health. In our lab, we study the role of multiple aspects of the neighborhood social and built environment in shaping health behaviors such as physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and sleep and examine the contribution of neighborhood characteristics in health disparities.

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Health disparities across socioeconomic positions have been well documented and cannot be fully explained by individual-level socioeconomic status. Macroenvironmental factors, such as neighborhood characteristics, have been increasingly recognized as potentially powerful determinants of health. In our lab, we study the role of multiple aspects of the neighborhood social and built environment in shaping health behaviors such as physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and sleep and examine the contribution of neighborhood characteristics in health disparities.

Are you an undergraduate or candidate graduate student seeking training and research opportunities? Please contact us!

Dr Xiao, Qian, PhD, MPH

225 S. Grand Avenue

Field House E118

Iowa City, IA 52242

(319) 335-9348

qian-xiao@uiowa.edu

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