Research

My research interests lie at the intersection of two areas: 1) exploring health behavior change within underserved and minoritized populations and 2) utilizing patient-reported outcomes (PROs) to assess the impact of chronic diseases on disease burden and quality of life (QoL). Employing robust and innovative methodologies, I have not only identified unique challenges faced by underserved and minoritized populations but also proposed solutions via intervention development, thereby enhancing the overall well-being of these communities. This line of research has the potential to inform interventions, policies, and healthcare system changes to promote health equity and improve outcomes. By incorporating patient perspectives through PROs, I have contributed to enhancing the understanding of chronic diseases, leading to tailored interventions and improved QoL. These achievements reflect my commitment to advancing knowledge and making a meaningful impact in healthcare research. Equally significant is my commitment to involving students in research and nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders. On my team, students have actively contributed to ongoing projects, gaining practical experience while honing their critical thinking and research skills. This involvement enriches their education and contributes to the future of healthcare by cultivating a pipeline of talented and socially conscious health professionals.

The overarching mission of my research program is to develop, implement, and disseminate novel assessments and interventions to improve QoL outcomes among underserved minoritized groups. I am the principal investigator and director of The Multidisciplinary Health Outcomes Research and Economics (MORE) Lab which has three main areas of research: 1) developing and utilizing patient-reported outcomes in assessing the impact of chronic disease on disease burden and quality of life (QoL); 2) identifying factors influencing healthcare utilization and outcomes among underserved, minoritized groups; and 3) designing and creating mobile health (mHealth) interventions to improve survivorship outcomes among ethnically diverse Black men with prostate cancer (CaP). My research as a tenure-track assistant professor at OUHSC has focused on utilizing mixed methodologies with a community-engaged approach to improve cancer and lupus outcomes in patients. In the following sections, I describe the sequential and systematic approach my research has taken toward filling these critical gaps in the extant literature.

Developing and utilizing patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for assessing the impact of chronic disease on disease burden and quality of life (QoL).

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) play a crucial role in evaluating the impact of chronic diseases on quality of life (QoL). By directly capturing subjective information from patients, PROs offer valuable insights into their experiences and well-being. Prior to my research, limited knowledge existed regarding the factors affecting QoL in individuals with Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE). My research focused on developing a disease-specific PRO measure, the Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Quality of Life (CLEQoL) instrument, to fill this gap. Incorporating patient input, the CLEQoL covers domains such as emotions, functioning, symptoms, photosensitivity, and body-image issues. The development process involved a systematic literature review, focus groups, and a cross-sectional study with CLE patients, revealing the inadequacy of existing measures and emphasizing the importance of addressing patient concerns. The CLEQoL has shown promising results in assessing QoL in CLE patients, with ongoing efforts focused on its longitudinal utility and clinical applicability. Licensed by Mapi Research Trust, the CLEQoL is available in over 45 translations, facilitating its global use and enabling cross-cultural comparisons. In summary, developing disease-specific PRO measures for CLE fills a crucial gap in assessing QoL and enhances patient-centered care. Additionally, my dissemination efforts through publications and presentations have contributed to knowledge exchange and improved patient care strategies.

1.Walker MA, Lu G, Clifton S, Ogunsanya ME, Chong BF. Influence of Socio-demographic Factors in Patients with Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus. Frontiers in Medicine (Lausanne). 2022:11;9. DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.916134. PMCID: PMC9311297

2.Ogunsanya ME, Cho SK, Hudson A, Chong BF. Factors Associated with Quality of Life in Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Using the Revised Wilson and Cleary Model. Lupus Journal. 2020:29;13:1691-1703. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177%2F0961203320951842. 

3.Prasad S, Raman J, Ogunsanya ME, Chong BF. Principal components analysis as a tool to identify lesional skin patterns in cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2020;83(3):922-924.

4.Ogunsanya ME, Hudson AD, Cho SK, Chong BF. Validation and Reliability of a Disease‐Specific Quality of Life Measure in Patients with Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus: CLEQoL. British Journal of Dermatology. 2019:180;6:1430-1437. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.17636.  

• Ogunsanya ME, Brown CM, Lin D, Imarhia F, Maxey C, Chong BF. Understanding the Disease Burden and Unmet Needs among Patients with Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE): A Qualitative Study. Int J Women’s Dermatol. 2018 Apr 13;4(3):152-158. PMCID: PMC6116830. 

Enhancing Quality of Life: Exploring Determinants and Tailored Strategies for Improved Health Outcomes

In addition to the contributions described above, with a team of collaborators, I directly contributed to examining QoL in different populations and assessing current PRO measures. These studies emphasized contextual factors that are determinants of QoL in the unique study population. Consequently, these factors, especially the modifiable ones, can be targeted to improve the QoL of patients and overall health outcomes. Understanding the nuanced interplay of these determinants not only enriches our comprehension of QoL in various contexts but also offers a pathway for developing tailored strategies to enhance the well-being of patients. Through this multifaceted approach, I aim to contribute to the broader goal of improving both the QoL of individuals and overall health outcomes.

• Ogunsanya ME, Cho SK, Hudson A, Chong BF. Validation and reliability of a disease-specific quality-of-life measure in patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus. Br J Dermatol. 2019;180(6):1430-1437. PMCID: PMC6546517
• Dickey SL, Ogunsanya ME. Quality of Life among Black Prostate Cancer Survivors. American Journal of Men’s Health. 2018:12; 5:1648-1664.
• Ogunsanya ME, Bamgbade B, Thach AV, Sudhapalli P, Rascati K. Determinants of Health-Related Quality of Life in International Graduate Students. Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning. 2018:10;4:413-422. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cptl.2017.12.005.
• Ogunsanya ME, Bamgbade B, Sudhapalli P, Thach AV, Rascati K. Stress and Health-Related Quality of Life among Graduate Students: A Cross-Sectional Study; Value & Outcomes Spotlight, Vol. 2, No. 3, May-June 2016 Edition

Tailoring Tobacco Cessation Interventions for Vulnerable Populations

Identifying behavioral patterns is crucial for promoting health and achieving optimal outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations like African American (AA) young adults, who show higher use of little cigars and cigarettes (LCC). My co-led research revealed widespread positive attitudes towards LCC use among AA young adults, highlighting the misconception that they are less harmful than cigarettes. Understanding these beliefs can inform targeted interventions to promote quitting behaviors. Additionally, my work explores strategies to enhance adherence to tobacco cessation counseling and pharmacotherapy among socioeconomically disadvantaged smokers. Findings suggest interventions should focus on patient-level influences such as motivation, coping mechanisms, and personal beliefs about smoking and cessation. Culturally sensitive approaches are crucial, especially for racially and ethnically diverse groups. I've contributed to studies on financial incentives, discrimination's impact on cessation, and the relationship between cannabis use and tobacco cessation in impoverished counties. These investigations underscore the importance of tailored cessation interventions considering social and behavioral factors, highlighting the need for comprehensive approaches in promoting health behavior change in vulnerable populations.

1. Ogunsanya ME, Frank-Pearce S, Businelle MS, Alexander AC, Boozary LK, Sifat MS, Wetter DW, Kendzor DE. The Impact of an Incentive-Based Smoking Cessation Intervention Among Minoritized And Vulnerable Adults. Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) 30th Annual Meeting, Edinburgh, Scotland, March 20-23, 2024.
2. Boozary LK, Chen S, Chen M, Sifat MS, Alexander AC, Ogunsanya ME, Tonkin SS, Oliver JA, Businelle MS, Wetter DW, Kendzor DE. Daily Smartphone-Assessed Discrimination is Associated with a Decreased Likelihood of Abstinence Among Adults Participating in Smoking Cessation Treatment. Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) 30th Annual Meeting, Edinburgh, Scotland, March 20-23, 2024.
3. Ogunsanya ME, Frank-Pearce S, Ehlke S, Madison S, Kendzor D. Predictors of Tobacco Counseling and Medication Adherence Among Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Adults. Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco (SRNT) 28th Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Maryland, March 15 - 18, 2022.
4. Stephens M, Ogunsanya ME, Ford KC, Bamgbade BB, Liang MC. Little Cigar and Cigarillo Beliefs and Behaviors among African-American Young Adult. Am J Health Behav, 2015 Jul;39(4), 519-528.PMID: 26018100. (Research Support Non-US Gov’t)

Mixed-Methods Evaluations

Throughout my career, I have played a pivotal role in clinical and translational research, particularly at the Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources (OSCTR). Since 2018, I've served as the Associate Director of the Qualitative Outcomes Evaluation, Tracking, and Evaluation Core, where I've spearheaded the development of robust evaluation strategies. Employing a mixed-methods approach, I've meticulously tracked progress across various facets of OSCTR's programs, including trainee development, mentorship, pilot project implementation, and research team effectiveness. My aim has been to optimize resource allocation and ensure the effective advancement of OSCTR's mission. Additionally, as the host of "The GROklahoma Podcast Show," launched by OSCTR in June 2023, I've had the unique opportunity to amplify the importance of clinical and translational research in Oklahoma. This monthly show has been meticulously crafted to showcase vital resources available for researchers in the state, covering diverse topics such as funding opportunities, collaboration tools, regulatory support, and more through engaging interviews with experts and stakeholders. The launch of The GROklahoma Podcast Show underscores my commitment to fostering collaboration in clinical and translational research, providing a platform for knowledge dissemination and interdisciplinary exchange.

• The GROklahoma Podcast. Accessed February 9, 2024. https://groklahomapodcast.podbean.com/
• Campbell J, Ogunsanya ME, Holmes N, VanWagoner T, James J. Bibliometric and Social Network Analysis of a Clinical and Translational Resource Awardee: an Oklahoma Experience 2014-2021. Journal of Clinical and Translational Research
• Ogunsanya ME, Holmes N, VanWagoner T, James J. Bibliometric and Social Network Analysis of a Clinical and Translational Resource Awardee: an Oklahoma Experience 2014-2021. Journal of Clinical and Translational Research.
• Ogunsanya ME, Beebe LA, Campbell J, Holmes N, VanWagoner T, James J. Barriers, Needs, and Facilitators to Conducting Clinical and Translational Research (CTR) in Oklahoma - A Sequential Exploratory Mixed Method Study. Evaluation 2022, American Evaluation Association, New Orleans, LA, November 7 - 12, 2022.

Community Engagement and Health Advocacy

In addition to my role in mixed-methods evaluations, I have been deeply dedicated to community engagement and health advocacy. My proactive approach to disseminating research findings across diverse platforms, including local community groups and global media outlets. Notably, my Sunday feature "Black Men More Likely to Die from Prostate Cancer" in Punch Newspaper sheds light on healthcare disparities, specifically focusing on the impact of prostate cancer among Black men. Collaborating with my Community Advisory Board (CAB), I have organized four virtual townhall meetings and podcast episodes from 2022 to 2023, centering on prostate cancer survivorship among Black men. These initiatives have facilitated crucial dialogue on health awareness, diagnosis barriers, and supportive care avenues, resonating widely with audiences across the country. Moreover, my dedication to mentorship and education is evident in integrating PharmD and graduate students into community-engaged research activities, providing them with invaluable real-world experiences to shape healthcare discourse and address the needs of underserved populations.

• Ogunsanya ME (Convener): Virtual Town Hall Meeting, Elevating Comfortability Around Health Conversations and Early Diagnosis, Nov 2023
• Adejoro L, Ogunsanya ME. Black men more likely to die from prostate cancer. PUNCH Nigeria. July 16, 2023. https://punchng.com/black-men-more-likely-to-die-from-prostate-cancer-expert/
• The More Sibyl Podcast. 전립선암 생존자로서 함께 살아남기: The One with Mr. Tommy Mitchell - On Navigating Prostate Cancer and Family Dynamics: Episode 16 (2023). June 27, 2023. https://www.mosibyl.com/podcast/tommysr2023
• Ogunsanya ME (Convener): Virtual Town Hall Meeting, Prostate Cancer Survivorship in Black Men. Diagnosis Journey: Overcoming Hesitancy, Misconceptions and Cultural Barriers, June 2023
• Ogunsanya ME, Kaninjing E, Shahid M¤, Kendzor D, Dwyer K, Young ME, Odedina FT. Prostate Cancer Survivorship and Advocacy in Ethnically Diverse Black Men: Findings from a Town Hall Event. 15th American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Conference, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, September 16-19, 2022.

Designing and creating mobile-based interventions to improve survivorship outcomes for ethnically diverse Black men with prostate cancer

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of smartphone apps for healthcare interventions, known as mobile health (mHealth) apps, has surged. However, there's a lack of such apps tailored for prostate cancer (CaP) survivorship, particularly for Black men who may face stigma associated with the disease. To address this gap, I conducted a comprehensive review and qualitative study among Black CaP survivors, leading to the development of the "Survivorship App For Ethnically Diverse Black Prostate Cancer Survivors – SAFE-CaPS." This app, funded by the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), offers tailored resources to empower Black CaP survivors, aiming to enhance their quality of life. Ongoing testing aims to refine the app further, with future research planned to evaluate its effectiveness in real-world settings. Overall, this work fills critical gaps in health interventions for underserved populations.

1.         Ogunsanya ME, Sifat M, Bamidele OO, et al. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions in prostate cancer survivorship: a scoping review. J Cancer Surviv. Jan 11 2023;doi:10.1007/s11764-022-01328-3

2.         Dickey SL, Ogunsanya ME. Quality of life among black prostate cancer survivors: an integrative review. American journal of men's health. 2018;12(5):1648-1664. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/motolani/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MotolaniPhD

Email: Motolani-adedipe@ouhsc.edu

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=9kjy79gAAAAJ&hl=en