Yendelela Cuffee

Yendelela Cuffee, Ph.D., MPH, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Delaware's College of Health Sciences, where she also serves as Associate Director of the Partnership for Healthy Communities. Her research examines psychosocial and structural factors affecting cardiovascular disease, medication adherence, and health outcomes in racial/ethnic minority populations through community-based interventions.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Clinical and Population Health, University of Massachusetts Medical School (2012)
• MPH in Epidemiology, New York Medical College (2007)
• BS in Biology, Hampton University (2003)

Research Focus: Dr. Cuffee's work centers on social determinants of health, cardiovascular disease disparities, and community-engaged interventions. She investigates how discrimination, trust in healthcare systems, and cultural factors (e.g., home remedy use) impact chronic disease management among African Americans. Her recent studies explore telehealth, health literacy, and social networks as tools to reduce health inequities.

Publications: Her recent articles (2021-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on hypertension management in Black communities, mental well-being amid discrimination, and innovative methods for health equity research. Key themes include COVID-19 impacts on chronic disease, racial/gender disparities in care, and community-based participatory approaches.

Affiliations: Society of Behavioral Medicine, American Heart Association.