Tung Nguyen

Tung Nguyen, MD is a Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), School of Medicine. His work focuses on reducing health disparities among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations through community-engaged research, cancer prevention, and chronic disease management.

• B.A. in Philosophy, Harvard College (1986)
• M.D., Stanford University School of Medicine (1991)
• Residency in Medicine, UCSF (1994)
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion Training, UCSF (2018)

Dr. Nguyen’s research spans health equity, cancer disparities, hepatitis B and colorectal cancer screening, tobacco control, and geriatrics. He employs community-based participatory research methods and culturally tailored interventions, often involving lay health workers, to improve health outcomes in underserved populations. His work addresses structural and cultural barriers to care, with a focus on Asian American communities.

His recent publications (2022–2025) reveal a consistent focus on health equity, patient navigation, digital health tools (e.g., apps for screening and physical activity), and the social determinants of health. Themes include the impact of the pandemic on older adults, pain management disparities, and mentorship for underrepresented minorities in science.

Scientific Awards:

• 2019 Chancellor Award for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership - Faculty Category

Dr. Nguyen has served as Principal Investigator and Co-Principal Investigator on numerous NIH-funded grants, including studies on colorectal cancer screening, smoking cessation, and health equity. He has mentored extensively and contributed to national policy discussions on Asian American health. He is actively involved in diversity initiatives and leadership at UCSF.