For more than half a century, the Center has adapted to the shifting landscapes of medicine and policy, pursuing new lines of research as needed to answer the most pressing questions in health care. Cancer We are driven by a singular goal—to mitigate the impact of cancer in people’s lives. COVID-19 The Kaiser Permanente Northwest Center for Health Research (CHR) has been conducting COVID-19 research since April 2020. Since that time, new findings have emerged, and new studies are underway at CHR and at Kaiser Permanente Northwest (KPNW). Diabetes CHR has been a leader in diabetes research for more than 25 years. Evidence-based Medicine & Policy The Kaiser Permanente Research Affiliates Evidence-based Practice Center is designated as an official EPC by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Genetics & Genomics Answering key questions about the causes and underlying biology of disease. Health Disparities We pursue disparities research both within the Kaiser Permanente health plan and in many community settings. Health Information Technology We are tapping into the potential of health IT to provide needed services to larger numbers of people, at a time and place that is more convenient for them, and at lower cost. Health Services & Economics Discovering the best ways to allocate resources to balance the needs of patients and health systems. Mental Health We study mental illnesses with the knowledge that mental and physical health are inextricably linked. Obesity The Center for Health Research has long been a powerful voice in the fields of obesity and weight control. Substance Abuse We increase understanding about substance-related disorders and improve treatment options. Vaccine Safety & Effectiveness Through clinical trials and studies of KPNW health record data, CHR researchers are at the forefront of ensuring the safety and efficacy of vaccines before and after FDA approval. Wellness & Behavior Change We conduct novel research to develop and evaluate methods for changing unhealthy behavior. Women's Health The field of women’s health cuts across our entire body of research.