Sandi Pruitt

Sandi Pruitt is a Professor and Associate Director of Community Outreach, Engagement, and Equity at the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center. Her research integrates epidemiology, behavioral science, and health equity to address cancer disparities and social determinants of health in the Dallas-Fort Worth region and across the U.S.

Her research interests focus on cancer epidemiology, health equity, and community-engaged methods. She investigates how socioeconomic, racial, and geographic factors influence cancer screening, survival, and access to care. Her work leverages geospatial analysis, electronic health records, and community data to map disparities and inform policy. A key focus is food insecurity and its intersection with health outcomes, demonstrated through projects like the DFW Community Profile dashboard and statewide life expectancy studies.

Her recent publications reveal a strong trend in analyzing multi-cancer populations, ethnic enclave effects, and neighborhood-level determinants of cancer outcomes. She frequently employs large datasets such as SEER and NHANES, combining clinical, administrative, and survey data to generate actionable evidence for public health interventions.

Sandi Pruitt currently serves as Principal Investigator on two NIH R01 grants focused on multiple primary cancers and cancer disparities in Hispanic and Asian American populations. She also contributes to community service as Vice Chair of the Board for Crossroads Community Services, reflecting her commitment to food assistance and social equity.

Her team’s work includes the development of public data dashboards and partnerships across the UT System, emphasizing transparency and community involvement in research. Notable projects include the Texas Life Expectancy Mapping initiative and studies on food pantry utilization and its impact on well-being.