Heather M. Ochs-Balcom

PhD

Heather M. Ochs-Balcom.

Heather M. Ochs-Balcom

PhD

Heather M. Ochs-Balcom

PhD

Research Topics

Genetic epidemiology of complex traits; cancer health disparities; obesity and cancer risk; hormones and aging, women’s health.

Overview Publications News

UB News

  • Studies point to redlining as a ‘perfect storm’ for breast cancer
    5/12/25

    New UB-led research indicates that while the residential segregation policy was outlawed decades ago, it still impacts women’s health today.

  • UB stories heard around the world in 2019
    12/26/19

    From analyzing the avocado genome to designing a stingray-inspired space exploration vehicle, here are some highlights from a year of discovery.

  • Genetics are key to hormone therapy lowering risk of broken bones in older women
    4/24/17

    Women at the highest genetic risk for fracture benefit the most from hormone therapy, according to a first-of-its-kind study led by UB researchers.

  • Study: Exercise mitigates genetic effects of obesity later in life
    6/4/18

    Genetic associations on BMI were strongest in sedentary postmenopausal women and weakest in women who reported high levels of recreational physical activity.

  • UB scientist receives federal grant for “Jewels in Our Genes” follow up
    6/26/19

    Study seeks to identify new genes associated with breast cancer risk in African American women.

  • Study: Getting a good night’s rest is important for better bone health
    11/12/19

    Getting five or fewer hours of sleep a night is associated with low bone mineral density (BMD) and higher odds of osteoporosis, according to the findings of the largest study of sleep and BMD to date among U.S. postmenopausal women.

  • GEM funds projects to explain genetics
    10/24/17

    The projects include introducing genetics to high schoolers, strengthening the STEM workforce and tailoring breast cancer info to African-American women.

In the News