Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Induction Of Dusp9 In Xenografts From Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines Increases Mammary Cancer Stem Cells, Albert Barrios, Meher Parveen, Phd, Easter Thames, Melanie Baker, Shelha Pervin, Phd

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Breast cancer remains a complex disease that kills 40,000 women every year. Initiation and progression of breast cancer is influenced by heterogeneous groups of cells, including mammary cancer stem cells (MCSCs). Progression of this dreadful disease is driven by many signaling pathways among which MAPK pathway is highly prominent. Since targeting prominent kinases in MAPK pathway has been unsuccessful to control breast cancer, it is important to examine the phosphatases that regulate the activity of these kinases.

Using xenograft model from breast cancer cell lines, our lab has found that during the initial stages of xenograft development (week 1-4, 100-200mg …

Preparing Underrepresented High School Students To Increase Diversity In The Research And Health Professions, Dolores E. Caffey-Fleming, Ms, Mph, Christopher Reid, Md, Phd

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

This article introduces the work that was done through the Coordinating Center at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.

The Step Up Program, Lawrence Agodoa, Md

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

The Short-Term Research Experience Program for Underrepresented Persons (STEP-UP) was established as part of the NIDDK Strategic Plan on Minority Health Disparities. This article provides an overview and introduction of this program. All of the articles that are included in this special issue reflect the work of our coordinating centers, the mentors and their staff, as well as the students.

Racial And Ethnic Disparities In Dermatology Office Visits Among Insured Patients, 2005-2010, Valerie M. Harvey, Joan Paul, L. Ebony Boulware,

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Objective:To determine whether differences in race and ethnicity affect the usage of dermatological services.

Methods: Data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey were used to study trends in ethnic/race rates of outpatient dermatology office visits among publicly and privately insured patients from 2005-2010. In multivariable models, we explored the magnitude of ethnic/race differences in dermatology visit attendance for patients with public vs. private insurance.

Results: From 2005-2010, dermatology visit utilization increased among insured Hispanics, but not among insured non-Hispanic Blacks or whites. Visits were less frequent by those with public insurance compared to private insurance. Privately and publicly …

Hispanic Representation In A Longitudinal Birth Cohort Study, Julie Postma, Lisa R. Younglove, Kerry Brooks, Tamara Odom-Maryon, Shirley Beresford, Thomas Burbacher, Phillip Butterfield, Patricia Butterfield, Nicole Cederblom, Kimberly Grant, Elaine M. Faustman

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Background: The purpose of this paper is to report: 1) strategies used to engage Hispanic women and their families in a longitudinal birth cohort study, and 2) comparisons of Hispanic and non-Hispanic groups that received those strategies. This paper augments the current literature by reporting methods and results specific to a subpopulation of Hispanic women, that of self-identified Mexican women. Comparisons between Hispanic and non-Hispanic groups that received those strategies will build the evidence base that supports effective outreach and engagement strategies.

Methods: Cultural responsiveness theory was used to structure outreach and engagement, including: 1) assembling a culturally competent team; …

Dental Health Practices In Us College Students: The American College Health Association-National College Health Assessment Findings, Lori Dewald Edd, Atc, Mches, F-Aahe

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the dental health seeking practices of US college students. Participants: The total number of college students who participated in the ACHA-NCHA survey from 2000-2013 was 1,201,531. Methods: The data requested were the demographic questions and the dental health question from both the ACHA-NCHA I and II. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The percentage of students who reported having a dental exam and cleaning in the last year averaged 76.6% in this study period of time. However, dental health care declined annually following their freshman year. More females …

Attitudes Toward Breast Cancer Genetic Testing In Five Special Population Groups, Amelie G. Ramirez, Patricia Chalela, Kipling J. Gallion, Edgar Muñoz, Alan E. Holden, Linda Burhansstipanov, Selina A. Smith, Evaon Wong-Kim, Stephen W. Wyatt, Lucina Suarez

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Purpose: This study examined interest in and attitudes toward genetic testing in 5 different population groups.

Methods: The survey included African American, Asian American, Latina, Native American, and Appalachian women with varying familial histories of breast cancer. A total of 49 women were interviewed in person. Descriptive and nonparametric statistical techniques were used to assess ethnic group differences.

Results: Overall, interest in testing was high. All groups endorsed more benefits than risks. There were group differences regarding endorsement of specific benefits and risks: testing to “follow doctor recommendations” (p=0.017), “concern for effects on family” (p=0.044), “distrust of modern medicine” (p=0.036), …

Racial Disparities In The Association Between Stress And Preterm Birth, Saba W. Masho, Sarah Kye Price, Patricia Anne Kinser, Nancy Jallo

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Background: High levels of maternal stress have been linked to preterm births. However, findings from previous studies are inconsistent due to the varied use of stress measures. This study examined the effect of maternal stress on preterm birth, using both psychosocial and physiological measures.

Methods: This study was conducted among 231 pregnant women enrolled during their first prenatal care visit. Presence of stress was assessed at enrollment using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Stressful Life Events Inventory (SLEI). Samples of maternal salivary cortisol were obtained during the first trimester and birth outcomes were ascertained at delivery. Multiple …

Community Based Participatory Research: The Application And Lessons Learned From A Study With Lgb College Students, Caitlin M. Stover

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals are members of a vulnerable group where health disparities have been identified. To gain a better understanding of the LGB college student healthcare experience and its contribution to the healthcare disparities found in LGB population, a community based participatory research (CBPR) approach was used to fill the gap. This paper will outline the CBPR process with an emphasis on how the principle investigator applied the tenets of CBPR when working with a local LGB college community. Several lessons learned from the research process are also shared in this paper.

Understanding How Components Of Black Racial Identity And Racial Realities May Impact Healthcare Utilization: A Randomized Study, Alexander M. Chaitoff, Thomas Wickizer, Ismail White

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Purpose: Studies have suggested that even when minority groups have potential access to healthcare, they may have inadequate utilization (realized access). This study explores the application of a theory from the social psychology and political science literatures concerning how racial centrality and racial realities, specifically amongst Blacks, may influence patients’ healthcare utilization preferences.

Methods: We created a survey with two (pseudo) randomized, controlled experimental treatments designed to assess whether racialized hospital and physician characteristics elicited a preference from Black or White respondents, as well as questions aimed at understanding participants’ different beliefs and levels of knowledge about past and current …

Experiences With The Streptococcus Mutans In Lakota Sioux (Smiles) Study: Risk Factors For Caries In American Indian Children 0-3 Years, David R. Drake, Deborah Dawson, Katherine Kramer, Amy Schumacher, John Warren, Teresa Marshall, Delores Starr, Kathy Phipps

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Severe Early Childhood Caries (S-ECC) is a terribly aggressive and devastating disease that is all too common in lower socio-economic children, but none more so that what is encountered in American Indian Tribes. Nationwide, approximately 27% of 2-5 year olds have decay while 62% percent of American Indian/Alaska Native children in the same age group have a history of decay (IHS 2010, NHANES 1999-2002). We have conducted a study of children from birth to 36 months of age on Pine Reservation to gain a better understanding of the variables that come into play in the development of this disease, from …

Assessment Of The Perceived Role And Function Of A Community Advisory Board In A Nih Center Of Excellence: Lessons Learned, Margaret L. Walsh, Desiree Rivers, Maria Pinzon, Nina Entrekin, Emily M. Hite, Julie A. Baldwin

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Background: The Community Advisory Board (CAB) was a vital component of the Center for Equal Health. The center addressed health disparities through community-based research and educational outreach initiatives. Objectives: To evaluate the perceived relationship of the CAB and Center, explore members’ perceptions of the CAB’s role, and elicit feedback on how to enhance the relationship between the Center and the CAB. Methods: Ten in-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed with a focus on predetermined codes. Results: Main themes focused on perception of CAB roles and need for utilization of board members; overall center challenges; …

Implementation And Feasibility Of An Auricular Acupuncture Intervention For Smoking Cessation In A Residential Spiritual Recovery Program: A Pilot Study, Cynthia Johnson, Payam Sheikhattari, Lixing Lao, Yvonne Bronner, Fernando Wagner

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Abstract

This study examined the feasibility of recruiting of participants and retention to an auricular acupuncture intervention for smoking cessation at a residential spiritual recovery program for a chemically dependent population in the mid-Atlantic region. The association between beliefs about acupuncture and smoking cessation were also assessed. This was an intervention study guided by the principles of Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR).

The National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) protocol was used as part of the smoking cessation intervention (participants received auricular acupuncture for 40 minutes, 3 times per week for 1 month). Smoking cessation, adherence rate to the treatment plan, …

Chronic Physical Health Conditions Among Homeless, Nooshin Nikoo, Marjan Motamed, Mohammad Ali Nikoo, Verena Strehlau, Erika Neilson, Sahoo Saddicha, Michael Krausz

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

ABSTRACT

Objective: Morbidity and mortality among homeless individuals is higher than the general population. This study aims to determine the prevalence of current self-reported, chronic physical health conditions in a large sample of homeless people with sub-samples from shelters and street in British Columbia, Canada. Methods: Cross-sectional survey applying modified version of the ‘National Survey of Homeless Assistance Providers and Clients (NSHAPC)’ questionnaire in multiple sites in Vancouver, Victoria and Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. Sample: Five hundred homeless individuals were surveyed between May and September of 2009. A person was defined as homeless if he/she had a …

Impact Of Social And Cultural Factors On Teenage Pregnancy, Devi Akella, Melissa Jordan

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

United States has the highest level of teenage pregnancy amongst the industrialized nations. Further, the level of teenage pregnancy is highest amongst the minority population. This research study examines the reasons behind high rates of early childbirth amongst African American teenagers. This study uses Bandura’s (1977) Social Learning Theory to deconstruct the factors, which influence and manipulate the overall behavior of the teenagers and initiates them to choose early motherhood over education and career. To ensure better quality of empirical data, the authors collaborated with the pregnant teenagers and a local non-profit community agency using a phenomenological analysis.

Lessons Learned: Exploratory Study Of A Hiv/Aids Prevention Intervention For African American Women Who Have Experienced Intimate Partner Violence, Michele A. Rountree

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Given the prevalence and co-occurring nature of HIV and intimate partner violence among African American women there is a need for a risk reduction intervention. This study explored the results from an exploratory study of an HIV/AIDS prevention intervention for African-American women who have experienced intimate partner violence. The emphasis of this study is to identify lessons learned to guide future research.

Recruitment for the feasibility study was done in two waves over a period of three months. During the first wave, 22 participants were recruited for the intervention group, and in the second wave, 25 participants were in the …

Editors' Notes-Women Of Color Sexual Health Across The Lifespan, Marya Shegog, Melva Thompson-Robinson

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

No abstract provided.

Editors' Notes: Men Of Color Sexual Health Across The Lifespan, Marya Shegog, Melva Thompson-Robinson

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

No abstract provided.

Can Mhealth Improve Risk Assessment In Underserved Populations? Acceptability Of A Breast Health Questionnaire App In Ethnically Diverse, Older, Low-Income Women., Carolina Bravo, Cristina O’Donoghue, Celia P. Kaplan, Judith Luce, Elissa Ozanne

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Background: Use of mobile health (mHealth) tools has expanded rapidly but little research has been done on its acceptability by low-income, diverse, older patient populations.

Objective: To assess the attitudes of a diverse group of underserved women on the acceptability and usability of mHealth tools in a clinical setting using a breast health questionnaire application (app) at a public hospital mammography clinic.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted in a breast-imaging center of an urban safety net institution from July-August 2012. Interviews included pre- and post-questions. Women completed the Athena breast health questionnaire app on an iPad and were asked about …

Racial And Ethnic Disparities In Time To Cure Of Incontinence Present At Nursing Home Admission, Donna Z. Bliss, Olga Gurvich, Kay Savik, Lynn Eberly, Susan Harms, Jean F. Wyman

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Abstract

As many as half of older people that are admitted to nursing homes (NHs) are incontinent of urine and/or feces. Not much is known about the rate of cure of incontinence present at NH admission, but available reports suggest the rate is low. There have been racial and ethnic disparities in incontinence treatment, but the role of disparities in the cure of incontinence is understudied. Using the Peters-Belson method and multilevel predictors, our findings showed that there were disparities in the time to cure of incontinence for Hispanic NH admissions. A significantly smaller proportion of older Hispanic admissions were …

A Transdisciplinary Approach To Eliminate Cancer Disparities: An Overview Of Community Engagement And Outreach Efforts In An National Institute Of Health Center For Excellence, Maisha Standifer, Mph, Julie Baldwin, Phd, Jenna Davis, Mph, Clemente Gwede, Phd, Coni Williams, Ma, Lolita Dash-Pitts, Johnetta Goldsmith, Ms, Thometta Cozart Brooks Ms, Mph, Deanna Wathington, Md, B. Lee Green, Phd, Kevin Sneed, Phamd

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

Creating health equity and eliminating health disparities are considered national priorities for improving the health of Americans (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d.). Health disparities are a primary public health concern, yet are complex phenomena and challenging to research (Harper & Lynch, 2005). The National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD), under the National Institute of Health (NIH), is committed to finding solutions to achieve this goal through the creation of interdisciplinary Centers of Excellence. In 2009, the University of South Florida (USF) and Moffitt Cancer Center (Moffitt) received a NIMHD Exploratory Center of Excellence award …

The Association Between Health Literacy And Diet Adherence Among Primary Care Patients With Hypertension, Jenny A. Hutchison Ms., Jan Warren-Findlow Dr., Michael Dulin Dr., Hazel Tapp Dr., Lindsay Kuhn

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

This study examines the association between health literacy and adherence to low-salt diet practices among individuals with hypertension. Health literacy is the ability of individuals to understand and utilize health information. We surveyed 238 patients with hypertension from a primary care clinic in Charlotte, NC. We assessed health literacy and self-reported low-salt diet. Logistic regression was used to model the relationship between health literacy and low-salt diet adherence. Respondents were primarily female (67.3%) and black (80%). Black Americans were less likely to have adequate health literacy as compared to white Americans (21.8% vs. 55.8%). The study found no association between …

Up North They’Re Talking Sex: A Collaborative And Community Driven Model For Sexual Health Knowledge Mobilization, Karen Edwards, Steve Mitchell Phd, Nancy Gibson Phd, Cecilia Zoe-Martin, Anita Daniels, Jim Martin, Patrick Wansbrough Rn

Journal of Health Disparities Research and Practice

To address high STI rates in their aboriginal communities, the Tłı̨chǫ of the Northwest Territories adopted a collaborative participatory research approach to sexual health based on four key stages of development. First was community initiation and engagement, where local leaders identified a priority need and began community discussions around sexual health. Secondly, identifying that existing government statistics did not provide them with adequate information, the Tlicho Community Services Agency partnered with the University of Alberta and CIETcanda to conduct a baseline study in all four Tlicho communities, designed and administered by community-based researchers. Third, a community action research team (CART) …