Luis A. Valdez

Dr. Luis A. Valdez (Yaotenehuac), a Yaqui and Opata scholar, is an Assistant Professor at Drexel University's Department of Community Health and Prevention. He specializes in community-led mixed-methods research addressing social and structural determinants of health in underserved populations, particularly focusing on Latino men's health disparities.

• PhD in Health Behavior & Health Promotion (University of Arizona, 2017)
• MPH in Health Promotion (University of Arizona)
• BA in Bio, University of Arizona

His research explores how societal factors influence Latino men's health behaviors, including substance use, chronic stress, dietary patterns, and physical activity. Dr. Valdez develops culturally tailored multilevel interventions through an intersectional framework to combat health inequities. Recent work examines:

• Gender-role strain and stress in Latino men
• Structural barriers to alcohol abuse treatment
• mHealth interventions for weight management
• Historical legacies in health disparities
• Community engagement in Navajo cancer care

Dr. Valdez leads the GANAS Health Lab (ganashealth.org), focusing on community-driven solutions. His publications demonstrate strong patterns in participatory action research, structural determinants, and culturally responsive interventions for marginalized communities.