Catherine Nagawa, Ph.D.

Catherine S. Nagawa, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Health Promotion Sciences at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Dr. Nagawa is a behavioral health researcher who uses both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Her interest lies in identifying interpersonal and intrapersonal behavior change strategies that can promote sustained health behavior change in high-risk populations. Focusing primarily on the design and implementation of health behavior change interventions, Dr. Nagawa aims to improve tobacco cessation rates within subpopulations with a high prevalence of tobacco use. Currently, her project seeks to bridge gaps in tobacco treatment care among individuals with mental health disorders. Previously, she explored the role of social support in helping individuals with mental health conditions overcome cessation challenges as they attempt to quit tobacco use.

Dr. Nagawa is trained as an epidemiologist, with specialized knowledge in applying advanced statistical techniques, including generalized linear models and structural equation modeling. She has significant expertise in the use of large population-based surveys, including the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH), the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), and the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS).