Abby M. Lohr, Ph.D., M.P.H.

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SUMMARY

Abby M. Lohr, Ph.D., M.P.H., is a mixed-methods researcher who studies chronic disease prevention and cancer screening among understudied groups. Dr. Lohr uses a community-based participatory research approach along with dissemination and implementation science to develop and integrate interventions into systems of care. She collaborates with community partners to design culturally tailored strategies to promote chronic disease management and cancer screening, particularly among immigrant and refugee communities. A key area of her research explores digital storytelling as a tool for behavior change.

Focus areas

• Immigrant and refugee health. Dr. Lohr develops interventions in clinical and community settings, particularly with immigrant and refugee populations. Her work addresses care for patients with limited English proficiency and promotes health and chronic disease management through community-driven strategies.
• Community-based participatory research. Dr. Lohr collaborates with community organizations and academic partners to design interventions using a community-based participatory research approach. She evaluates these interventions through clinical trials focused on reducing cardiovascular risk, supporting diabetes self-management and promoting colorectal cancer screening.
• Digital storytelling for health promotion. Digital storytelling interventions promote health among viewers by combining images, voiceovers and music in video narratives created by people with lived experience of a disease. Dr. Lohr demonstrates how these stories support behavior change and improve health outcomes.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Lohr works with local communities to help patients understand and manage ongoing health conditions and get cancer screenings. Her research improves care and supports the highest level of health for everyone.

Professional highlights

• Center for Chronic Disease Reduction and Engagement Across Minnesota Conference:
  • People's Choice Top Poster Award, 2024.
  • Top Poster Award, 2023.
• Community Choice Poster Award, Health Equity Action Network, 2024.
• University of Arizona:
  • Drachman Prevention Fellowship Award, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, 2019.
  • Competitive Merit Award, Paul D. Coverdell Peace Corps Fellowship, 2012-2014.