Becky Marquez

Becky Marquez, Ph.D., M.P.H. serves as an Associate Professor in the Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science at the University of California San Diego. Her research program focuses on behavioral interventions targeting eating and physical activity as well as interpersonal influences on weight-related behaviors, with particular emphasis on Latino populations.

Dr. Marquez's research interests include:

• Obesity prevention and treatment
• Weight management interventions
• Physical activity promotion
• Latino health disparities
• Mother-daughter relationships and health behaviors
• Family functioning in obesity treatment

Her work examines how social relationships, cultural factors, and family dynamics influence health behaviors related to obesity. She has developed several culturally adapted interventions including the 'Mothers Inspiring Healthy Actions (MIHA)' program for mother-daughter obesity treatment and 'Pasos Hacia La Salud' (Steps Toward Health), technology-based physical activity interventions for Latinas. Her recent publications analyze father-daughter relationships, body image, and barriers to muscle-strengthening activities among Latinas, demonstrating her comprehensive approach to understanding weight-related behaviors within cultural contexts.

Dr. Marquez has secured significant research funding through NIH grants:

• R01DK129682 (2021-2026): 'Improving Family Functioning in Obesity Treatment for Mexican American Women' as Principal Investigator
• K01HL130726 (2016-2020): 'Improving communication and collaboration for weight management in mother-daughter dyads' as Principal Investigator

Her research integrates behavioral science, public health practice, and cultural understanding to address obesity disparities in vulnerable populations through evidence-based interventions that consider family dynamics and social influences.