4th International Conference on Cancer Health Disparities and Research Symposium

GIF showcasing large groups of conference attendees posing together in a spacious lobby area with polished floors. Many participants wear badges and conference lanyards and stand in several rows for the group photo. Others are shown presenting with microphones in hand, and others are shown standing near scientific posters, showing their research.

The UTRGV School of Medicine hosted the 4th International Conference on Cancer Health Disparities and Research Symposium at South Padre Island, bringing together researchers, clinicians and students from across the globe. The event featured research presentations, student and resident showcases, and discussions on cancer prevention, early detection and emerging therapies.

The symposium highlighted the growing role of the Rio Grande Valley in advancing collaborative research to improve health outcomes in underserved communities.

Thank you to those who joined and participated!

Athletic Heart Syndrome

Dr. Evan Perez, assistant professor of Family and Community Medicine, recently authored a book chapter in the newly published 4th edition of 5-Minute Sports Medicine Consult, a widely used clinical reference in sports medicine.

His chapter, "Athletic Heart Syndrome," examines the physiologic cardiac adaptations seen in highly trained athletes and provides guidance for distinguishing these normal changes from potential pathologic conditions.

The publication highlights Dr. Perez's expertise in sports medicine and contributes to a trusted resource used by healthcare professionals to support clinical decision-making.

Congratulations!

Volume 1493 of Advances in

Experimental Medicine and Biology

Smiling man with graying hair poses against a gray background. He wears a dark blazer and blue shirt, conveying a friendly, professional demeanor.

Dr. Mohammed S. Razzaque, professor of medical education, recently edited Volume 1493 of Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, published by Springer Nature.

The volume explores the bidirectional relationship between vitamin D and mineral ions, highlighting how their interactions help regulate mineral balance and support overall health. It also examines how disruptions in this physiological process can contribute to the development of various diseases.

Designed to be accessible to readers across disciplines, the publication contributes to ongoing scientific dialogue on mineral metabolism and its role in human health.

Congratulations!

Wellness Week Recap

GIF showcasing several moving photos, including some of a woman sitting on a yoga mat in a bright room with a large window. A monitor displays a yoga session. The space feels peaceful and organized. Four painted rocks with positive messages and colorful designs. One says "Keep Faith," another "Deeply Loved," plus floral patterns and hearts. A split image with a painted rock and yellow flowers. The rock reads "Hope" with paw prints. Text: "2026 UTRGV SOM Wellness Consortium. Rocks of Hope—leave a message. Lift a Spirit." And a person in an apron stands in a modern kitchen, smiling. On the counter are red bell peppers, canned goods, a blender, and other ingredients, suggesting a cooking session.

The UTRGV School of Medicine hosted Wellness Week from March 3–5, bringing students, residents, faculty and staff together for events focused on well-being, connection and self-care.

Activities included a hybrid yoga and breathing session led by Dr. Gadad and medical student Simran Kortikere (MS1), a virtual culinary wellness workshop with Dr. Baker featuring a red pepper hummus demonstration, and the creative Rocks of Hope event, where participants shared messages of encouragement through decorated stones.

The week concluded with a special session featuring physician and educator Dr. Mukta Panda, who reflected on lessons from her career in medicine and emphasized the importance of self-care and resilience in sustaining a meaningful medical career.

UTRGV Newsroom:

Four medical professionals in black scrubs stand smiling in a bright clinic with white walls. They convey teamwork and professionalism.

UT Health RGV Cancer and Surgery Center launches new oncology pharmacy services

In the News:

A man in a white shirt and tie smiles standing near a sign for UTRGV's Institute of Neuroscience. Palm trees and a grassy area are in the background.

UTRGV professor’s research shows blood pressure can affect brain health

A woman in a hijab presents a poster to an attentive man and woman at a conference. They engage with smiles, creating a welcoming and professional atmosphere.

H2Ocean Highlights Sea Salt Innovations at 4th ICCHD & 9th Annual UTRGV School of Medicine Research Symposium