Founded in 1978, ABMR strives to “provide a forum for established scientists and thought leaders working in the field of behavioral medicine, where cutting-edge ideas can be exchanged in an informal, yet scientifically charged atmosphere,” as per the ABMR’s mission. ABMR members are distinguished behavioral medicine scholars who have been elected by their peers based on their remarkable scientific contributions. These prestigious awards are given to extraordinary early-career scientists to support their participation in the annual meeting of ABMR, as described by ABMR President Anna Marsland, Ph.D., R.N., as she congratulated Dr. Moreno.

The objectives of Dr. Moreno’s research are to understand the significant challenges faced by individuals coping with cancer and improve outcomes across the cancer continuum through patient-centered healthcare and tailored, empirically-supported interventions. Her research can be divided into two themes: enhancing the quality of life and wellbeing forcancer survivors, and reducing disparities in cancer prevention and control among Hispanics and Latinos in the U.S.

“I can say with absolute certainty that Dr. Moreno consistently exhibits the highest degree integrity, an outstanding work ethic, and exceptional clinical research skills that make her a very promising young scholar who is on a clear path to develop an independent and impactful research program” stated Frank J. Penedo, Ph.D., Sylvester’s Associate Director for Cancer Survivorship and Translational Behavioral Sciences and Professor in the Departments of Psychology and Medicine, who nominated Dr. Moreno for the ABMR award.

The 2022 ABMR conference took place in Woodstock, Vermont from June 26 to the 30th. The theme of this year’s conference was “Healthy Aging Across the Lifespan: The Role of Socioeconomic Status.” As part of the award, Dr. Moreno introduced Dr. Steve Flores, Lead of Vaccine Confidence and Demand at the CDC National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, for his talk on “A Public Health Strategy for Building Trust in Vaccination in the US.”

Dr. Moreno introducing Dr. Steve Flores

“It is an absolute honor to receive this award from the Academy of Behavioral Medicine Research and to be invited to attend the 2022 Annual Meeting. I have the utmost respect and admiration for this organization and its esteemed members” concluded Dr. Moreno.

Written by Deycha Torres Hernández

Published on July, 2022