UMKC Clinical Neuropsychology Lab
OUR RESEARCH
Multiple Sclerosis
With nearly 200 people diagnosed weekly, MS impacts the lives of approximately 400,000 Americans, and 2.1 million people around the world. MS is an autoimmune disorder affecting the brain and spinal cord. This unpredictable disease can cause a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
One of our primary areas of interest is to better understand and improve cognitive and emotional functioning in MS. In addition, we conduct research designed to improve health behaviors, such as medication adherence, healthy eating, and exercise. Ultimately we hope to create behavioral treatments that slow disease progression in MS. Current projects examine weight loss, physical activity, and the effects of polypharmacy.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease associated with elevated blood sugar and insulin resistance. 13% of US adults have T2DM. This number is even higher among people from underserved communities like KC’s Eastside. Regular blood sugar checks and use of diabetes medications can provide substantial health benefits for people with diabetes. Nonetheless, over 30 percent of people show poor adherence to treatment.
We are currently developing a treatment adherence plan that incorporates Motivational Interviewing (MI), Contingency Management (CM), and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs).
Publications
To view our lab's scholarly publications please visit:
Contributors
Our work would not be possible without the generous help of our contributors.
Peter Arnett
Chris Bailey
Christie Befort
Andrea Bradley-Ewing
Amanda Bruce
Delwyn Catley
Ruben Echemendia
Kathy Goggin
Stefan Gold
Oh-Ryeong Ha
David P Jarmolowicz
Seung-Lark Lim
Sharon Lynch
Robin Shook
Catherine Siengsukon
Steve Simon
Lauren Strober
Turquois Templeton