Forecast to Renew the Notice of Funding Opportunity Announcement for the Multiple Chronic Disease Research Centers

This forecast is to renew the Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Multiple Chronic Disease Research Centers (RFA-MD-21-007). This initiative will support existing and new regional comprehensive research centers to optimize prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of multiple chronic diseases (MCDs) and to improve health outcomes among pediatric and adult populations experiencing health disparities. The centers will focus on innovative research that: (1) develops, tests, and evaluates novel models or strategies, and/or (2) implements effective interventions in various settings such as community or healthcare settings/systems.

Chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lower respiratory diseases, are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the U.S. The prevalence of chronic health conditions among U.S. children and adolescents (especially cardiometabolic diseases) is also increasing. The effective integration and implementation of evidence-based interventions for both adults and children with comorbid chronic conditions remains understudied and is a priority. Each Center must address two or more chronic conditions that commonly co-occur and/or share common social context, etiological pathways, or risk factors and management strategies.

Research projects that advance the Make America Healthy Again Commission goals, with a focus on addressing disparities in the prevention or effective diagnosis, treatment and management of chronic conditions will be prioritized. In addition, research design and methodologies that are replicable, reproducible and generalizable are priorities.

Applications are not being solicited at this time. Notice is being provided to allow potential applicants sufficient time to develop meaningful collaborations and responsive projects. This NOFO will utilize the P50 (Critical Trial Required) activity code. Investigators with expertise and insights into the proposed scientific areas are encouraged to begin to consider applying for this new NOFO. In addition, collaborative investigations combining expertise in clinical, health services, behavioral interventions, implementation science, community engaged research, and clinical care will be encouraged, and these investigators should also consider applying for this NOFO.