Other Public Health Commons^™

Transforming Primary Care: Innovative Post Graduate Pa Training For Real-World Solutions, Kenneth Botelho, James Ali

Lynchburg Journal of Medical Science

The ongoing crisis in primary care demands innovative and scalable strategies to prepare and retain advanced practice providers. This article introduces the Primary Care Practitioner (PCP) Program, a conceptual postgraduate training model designed for certified physician associates/assistants (PAs) who aim to serve in underserved and rural communities. The program integrates advanced clinical training, leadership development, telehealth competencies, VR-enhanced simulation, and evidence-based strategies to promote provider resilience. Rooted in systems-based thinking and real-world applicability, the PCP Program culminates in capstone projects that encourage innovation in care delivery and population health.

Aligned with national frameworks such as the HRSA Primary Care Training …

The Social Standing Versus The Mind Standing Of Older Adults In Egypt: Cross-Sectional Analysis Of The Relationship Between Social Capital And Cognitive Functions, Shaza H. Shinaishen Dr

Theses and Dissertations

Introduction: Egypt's population, much like that of other countries, is expected to age considerably over the course of the coming decades. Although biological and socioeconomic predictors of cognitive function have been studied widely, personal level social capital remains unexplored, especially in LMICs.

Purpose: This study primarily investigates the relationship between individual social capital and cognitive functioning among older adults aged 65 years and older in Egypt using the structural and cognitive components of social capital, including group membership, civic engagements, and caregiving roles.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey on 363 older individuals in different geographical and demographic segments of Egypt using …

Food Environments And Mental Health: Analyzing The Impact Of Fast-Food Availability On U.S. Adults (2011-2016), Nicole Tenner

NYMC Student Theses and Dissertations

This study investigates the relationship between the availability of fast food in US territories and mental health outcomes. Utilizing a cross-sectional design, the study examines data from the 2011 and 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from the CDC, along with data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Environment Atlas. The analysis included a nationally representative sample of 351,823 participants across all 50 US states. Multiple regression models examined the association between fast food availability and two primary mental health outcomes: the number of self-reported poor mental health days and the likelihood of being diagnosed with a depressive …

Exploring Muslim American Attitudes Toward Genetic Testing: Perceptions, Barriers, And Ethical Considerations, Hannah Mahmoud

University Honors Theses

This thesis explores perceptions and attitudes toward genetic testing within the Muslim American community, a group often underrepresented in genomic research and public health discourse. Using a community-distributed digital survey, data was collected from 50 self-identified Muslim Americans on their familiarity with genetic testing, reproductive and ethical considerations, and the influence of religious factors. While only 18% had undergone genetic testing themselves, many were familiar through family or friends, and most expressed cautious interest—especially when results could influence future family planning. Education level, age, and religious values shaped both comfort and understanding.

A key theme was the desire for culturally …

Framing The Future: A Community Health Analysis Of The Pee Dee Region, Stephen Borders, Jean Anton, Rian Fontaine, Donielle Phillips, Treyton Ringer, Jessica Robinson, Caitlin Thompkins

Public Health

This report presents a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of community health across South Carolina’s Pee Dee region, encompassing Florence, Darlington, Chesterfield, Marlboro, Marion, and Dillon Counties. Using tract-level data from CDC PLACES, the U.S. Census, and the National Provider Identifier registry, it assesses chronic health conditions, health behaviors, and social determinants of health. The analysis incorporates the South Carolina Healthy Communities Index (SCHCI) and a Suitability Analysis to identify the region’s most disadvantaged communities. The findings highlight persistent disparities, particularly in rural counties, where high rates of poverty, chronic disease, and unmet basic needs intersect with limited access to care. Despite …

The Role Of Medical-Legal Partnerships On Social Determinants Of Health For Vulnerable Populations In The Inland Empire, Sabrina C. Kinnally

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

San Bernardino and Riverside counties face significant challenges in addressing the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) for vulnerable populations, including housing instability, healthcare access, and food insecurity. This project examined the role of Medical-Legal Partnerships (MLPs) in providing services to vulnerable populations. Through a systematic review, the study explored the current state of MLPs and their effectiveness in addressing SDOH to reduce health disparities. The other purpose is to assist Agape Legal Service, Inc. (AGAPE), a non-profit organization, in completing their strategic plan, which aims to address the legal needs of vulnerable populations within the Inland Empire. The systematic review …

Evaluating The Impact Of Community Gardens On Social Equity And Public Health: A Case Study Of Caramel Connections Foundation's (Ccf) Seeds Of Joy Community Garden, Elizabeth Pinder

Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations

Community gardens have been increasingly recognized as effective public health interventions that address food insecurity, foster social cohesion, and promote environmental sustainability. This evaluation examines the impact of the Caramel Connections Foundation (CCF) Seeds of Joy Community Garden in Ontario, California, by assessing its effectiveness in advancing social equity, improving public health outcomes, and fostering community engagement. Using an evaluation framework, this study measures key program outcomes, including improvements in community well-being, inclusivity, and access to green spaces.

A mixed-methods evaluation design was applied, incorporating process and impact evaluation methodologies. Secondary data collected from CCF’s existing program records, survey responses, …

Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices Of Adults For Periodic Health Assessment In Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, Fatimah Yousef Alhafedh, Rawan Ahmed Almusaileem, Zahraa Hassan Aljaafar, Rayhanah Saleh Alaayesh, Edric Estrella

Makara Journal of Health Research

Background: Regular medical consultation, such as annually or semi-annually for check-ups, especially to diagnose chronic conditions, is essential for health maintenance, particularly in adults. The aim of this study is to analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of adults aged 30 years or older for obtaining periodic professional health assessment in the city of Al Ahsa in Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a total sample of 472 adults. Multistage sampling was employed, and data were collected using a Google Forms survey and analyzed using JASP and OpenEpi. Descriptive and logistic regression analysis was used …

Food Insecurity And Childhood Obesity: College Students' Past And Present Eating Habits, Morgan A. Schmidt

Honors Thesis

Childhood obesity rates have become an increasing concern in the United States. It has been declared an epidemic due to the increasing number of children who are affected by obesity every year. While many factors can cause obesity, the primary factor is an individual’s dietary choices. This paper presents a literature review on eating habits and the long-term effects of childhood dietary choices on an individual’s body mass index (BMI), specifically among college students. It includes survey results that quantify college students' current eating habits compared to childhood ones. Additional factors influencing eating habits were evaluated, including the National School …

Psychological Treatment Behind The Walls:Insights From The Inside, Rogelio Serrano

Psychology Division Scholarship

Repeated eras of mass incarceration, criminalization of marginalized communities, and substance use policies have created a revolving door of justice involved populations. The ever-increasing prison population has repeatedly become the largest contingency of mental health clientele for an overburdened mental health system. Those who work with formerly incarcerated individuals in the community often don’t know the unique set of challenges faced by practitioners within the system. Increased understanding and coordination of care can offer opportunities for sustained recovery and reduced levels of recidivism. In this presentation participants will learn about the unique insights on mental health treatment that can be …

Understanding Barriers To Fresh Produce Consumption In Detroit, Riley Ann Macdonald, Kalyyanee Ganesh Nanaaware, Jeff Lu, Derek Zahnleuter, Heather Sun, Sara Naessig, Aminah Bharadia, Eric A. Mcgrath

Medical Student Research Symposium

Title: Understanding Barriers to Fresh Produce Consumption in Detroit

Abstract:

Background Information:

Detroit has barriers to fresh produce consumption and poor health outcomes related to diet, which necessitate further study. We aim to investigate these barriers by understanding current consumption practices of fresh produce, and provide evidence for future solutions to combat these barriers.

Methods:

Surveys were distributed at two urban garden locations (Wayne State University School of Medicine Medical Student Garden and Wayne Pediatrics Garden) in Midtown, Detroit, to patrons (n=34) receiving fresh produce between March-October 2024. Surveys screened for demographics, transportation, what produce patrons took, if they …

Shifting Healthcare In Rural South Carolina: A Study Of Media Coverage Of The Effects Of Hospital Closures, Morgan Harper

Senior Theses

Rural hospital closures have become an increasingly urgent issue in healthcare across the United States. These closures have impacted access to healthcare, the job market, and general community health. Most hospitals have been forced to close due to low patient volumes, financial struggles, and corporate ownership. Immediate implications of closures include the displacement of healthcare workers, community concern about lacking a central healthcare facility, and increased travel times to access care.

This thesis examines South Carolina’s healthcare landscape in areas with hospital closures since 2012 and explores the effects of and responses to these closures as discussed in newspapers and …

Impacts On College-Aged Asian American Mental Health, Zahra Soherwardy

Senior Theses

This study explores the relationship between different forms of racial harassment and mental health issues in Asian American college students. Asian American mental health is a growing concern in the field of public health. Asian Americans have the lowest treatment rates and some of the highest stigma levels of any demographic. They are also impacted by the model minority myth and discrimination, further alienating them from getting help. The topics of subtle racism, blatant racism, and current racial discrimination were compared to depressive symptoms, anxiety, self-esteem, and four domains of aggression using survey data. Subtle racism was found to be …

Examining Racial Disparities In Cancer Incidence And Mortality Across South Carolina Regions, William Stokes, Swann Arp Adams, Kara M Montgomery

Senior Theses

Purpose: To provide updated cancer mortality-to-incidence ratio (MIR) data across South Carolina (SC).

Methods: State and national incidence and mortality data were collected from the South Carolina Central Cancer Registry (SCCCR) and the National Cancer Institute’s Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Program (SEER). MIRs (mortality rate/incidence rate) were calculated for all cancer sites, cervical, colon, female breast, lung and bronchus, oral cancers, and prostate cancers from the years 2016-2021, excluding 2020.

Results: Major racial disparities in MIR were found in SC, with the largest discrepancies seen in cervical, colon, and prostate cancers. Of note, each SC region had white cervical …

Addressing Informal Caregiver Burnout In The United States: Policies, Interventions, And Recommendations, Michael Blampye

Master's Projects and Capstones

Informal caregiver burnout has been and will continue to be a significant public health concern in the United States, necessitating a comprehensive analysis of initiatives and policies to reduce its negative impacts. This paper provides an overview of existing approaches to address caregiver burnout at the individual, community, and national level, identifying critical gaps in policies and programs. By highlighting successful approaches in other developed countries, this paper presents comprehensive program and policy recommendations to strengthen informal caregiver support systems in the United States. Prioritizing these proposals can guide policymakers in creating a more supportive environment that values the crucial …

Poor Cancer Prevention And Detection In Zimbabwe, Kenyon C. Chipman

Journal of Nonprofit Innovation

Abstract

In the aftermath of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Zimbabwe, has witnessed a surge in noncommunicable diseases such as cancer. Despite the decline in HIV/AIDS and other cancer-associated illnesses like HPV, these diseases have set the stage for a growing cancer epidemic. Key contributing factors to this rise include a lack of knowledge about cancer among both patients and health professionals, the prevalence of cancer-associated communicable diseases, and limited accessibility to early detection and prevention services and resources. These factors have led to late diagnoses, increased burden on the healthcare system, and adverse effects on individuals and families. …

A Preventionist Framework For Reducing Drowning: A Case For Parenting Interventions, Miriam G. Clark, Linda Quan, Patricia Chamberlain

International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education

Drowning is preventable but still claims the lives of over 300,000 people worldwide every year. The purpose of this theoretical review paper is threefold: 1) discuss the theoretical framework for a multi-faceted system of prevention; 2) discuss the importance of parenting, a crucial area where current drowning prevention research is falling short in this multi-faceted approach; and 3) discuss how evidence-based practices from psychosocial parenting research could be used to create drowning prevention interventions that support parents to implement water safety practices in their families. Practical ideas for integrating psychosocial parent interventions with drowning prevention knowledge are discussed. Such interventions …

Disparities In Pap Smear Rates Among Diverse California Populations: A Data-Driven Analysis, Julie Paik, Thrisha Reddy, Giovanna Park, Angela Nguyen, Sherli Koshy-Chenthittayil

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Barriers In Dietary Approaches To Stop Hypertension (Dash): Acculturation And Adherence In Asian American Populations, Angela Nguyen, Michelle Lee, Thrisha Reddy, Sherli Koshy-Chenthittayil

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Using Variations In The Circadian Rhythm To Identify Optimal Vaccination Times In Healthy Adults Who Receive An Influenza Vaccine, Payson Broome, Karen Duus, Thrisha Reddy, Krystal Robinson, Jutta Ward, Michael Desouza, Samuel Park, Terry Ann Else, Deborah Bell-Pedersen

Annual Research Symposium

This proof-of-concept quasi-experiment investigated the relationship between circadian phase and immune response to the 2024-2025 influenza vaccine. This study will provide insight into the ideal physiological circadian phase to receive the influenza vaccine, better defining the relationship between circadian biology and immunity, and supporting a simple and cost-effective strategy to optimize influenza vaccine efficacy.

Impact Of Drug Addiction On Oral Health: Unveiling The Link Between Substance Abuse, Rahi [email protected], Kamran Awan

Annual Research Symposium

No abstract provided.

Characteristics And Outcomes Of Adults Hospitalized With Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Brian S. Shaw, Cara Slaton, Ian P. Murphy, Michael Mcalister, Daniel Egan, Kwabena Ayesu

The University of Louisville Journal of Respiratory Infections

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a negative sense single-stranded RNA virus (ssRNA) that primarily causes respiratory infections in both children and older adults. We examined clinical characteristics and outcomes of hospitalized adult patients who tested positive for RSV.

Methods: This was a multicenter, retrospective, descriptive study that examined adult patients admitted with a positive RSV test over two years across eight hospitals in Orlando, Florida.

Results: A total of 120 patients were included, of which 88 (73%) were 60 years old and older. Overall, patients with RSV infection were caucasian (62%) with a median age of 70 years and …

Improving Health Literacy Related To Hypertension In A Minority Faith-Based Population, Kasaundra M. Beverly-Marshall, Kasaundra M. Beverly-Marshall

Doctor of Nursing Practice Scholarly Projects

Background: Insufficient research on health literacy related to cardiovascular disease highlights a gap in healthcare. Healthy People 2030 and local community health programs acknowledge gaps in research with future goals to improve health literacy.

Local Problem: The health literacy rate for Winnebago County, IL (41%) is higher than both the State of Illinois and national health literacy rates, which aligns with the results of a community needs assessment survey.

Methods: A community-based health promotion project using a pre-post study design uses the health promotion model to engage participants in advancing cardiovascular health outcomes.

Interventions: DNP student assisted participants in creating …

Neurosurgical Praxis Guidelines During The Covid-19 Outbreak. Consensus-Based On Currently Available Literature., José Antonio Soriano Sánchez, Bárbara Nettel Rueda, José Alberto Israel Romero Rangel, Armando Alpizar Aguirre, Miguel Ángel Andrade-Ramos, Ulises García Dr., Diego Mendez Rosito, Jorge A. Santos, Sara Patricia Pérez Reyes, Julian Eduardo Soto Abraham, Jose E. Valerio Pascua, Marco Antonio Barajas Romero, Eduardo Díaz Juárez, Alma Griselda Ramírez Reyes, Maria Elena Gonzalez, Claudia Katiutska González Valdez, Félix Domínguez Cortinas, Noé Santiago Ramírez, Tenoch Herrada Pineda, Manuel Eduardo Soto García, Edgar Nathal Vera, Gustavo Melo Guzmán

Archives of Neurosurgery

INTRODUCTION: The World Health Organization recommended several strategies to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, including optimization of care for all patients, especially the seriously ill. Given the strain, the pandemic has posed on healthcare systems around the world, many neurosurgical associations have provided triage recommendations for patients to save resources for the pandemic. We aimed to provide practical recommendations based on specific illnesses requiring surgical procedures commonly performed by neurosurgeons on a life-threatening basis of patient illness. We consider this guideline will help neurosurgeons for the appropriate triage of patients on a daily-situation basis during this pandemic.

METHODS: The Mexican Society …

Investigating The Impact Of Phthalate Exposures From Personal Care Products On Uterine Fibroid Incidence And Prevalence In Us-Born Black Women, Ella Brissett

CMC Senior Theses

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors composed of smooth muscle cells and connective tissue that develop within or on the walls of the uterus. Despite being non-cancerous, they can severely affect quality of life by causing heavy bleeding, chronic pain, and reproductive complications. Fibroids are typically found in women of reproductive age, but they disproportionately affect Black women, who experience higher incidence and severity. The underlying causes of this disparity is poorly understood; however, an emerging body of research is highlighting the role of phthalates, endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in many personal care products, in exacerbating fibroid development. Through a critical analysis …

Resilience And Reality: Exploring The Lived Experiences Of People Living With Hiv In Texas During The Covid-19 Pandemic – A Qualitative Study., Ahmed F. Alanazi

Social Work Dissertations - Archive

This study investigated the lived experiences of individuals living with HIV (PLWH) in the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area of Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic, using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) framework. The research examined the intersection of health, social dynamics, and psychological resilience among PLWH, who faced compounded vulnerabilities due to systemic inequities and the dual public health crises of HIV and COVID-19. Through semi-structured interviews with ten participants from diverse backgrounds, the study captured the profound impacts of disrupted healthcare systems, heightened stigma, and social isolation on this marginalized population. The findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing inequities …

Nurses Current State Of Knowledge On Prion Disease, Chelsy Grande

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Prion disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central nervous system. Creutzfeldt-Jakob prion disease rapidly progresses, caused by an infectious pathogen that misfolds the normal prion protein which results in an accumulation of cellular prion proteins. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, only palliative care to provide support as the disease progresses. There is a gap in providing support for the patients and their families due to the limited understanding from the nurses, which can lead to the unmet needs of patients and their families. The purpose of the study is to evaluate what nurses …

Enhancing Wellbeing Through Caregiver Support: Improving Quality Of Life For Individuals With Special Needs And Complex Medical Diagnoses In Nicaragua, Jenna K. Devchand

Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium

Individuals with disabilities living all over the world are constantly faced with additional barriers. In low-income countries, such as Nicaragua, there is often a gap in access to resources and education, for both individuals living with disabilities and their caregivers. Access is essential to provide high quality care to meet unique needs. This occupational therapy doctoral capstone project was created to support individuals providing care to children with special needs and complex medical diagnoses in Nicaragua by providing community-based education and sustainable resources to caregivers to enhance wellbeing in daily life. The deliverable was presented in country in Nicaragua to …

Non-Profit Hospital Spending On Community Health Improvement: Catalysts, Impediments, And Opportunities In New York State, Isaac H. Michaels

Electronic Theses & Dissertations (2024 - present)

This dissertation assesses the distribution and determinants of spending by non-profit hospitals in New York State on community health improvement services and community benefit operations. Utilizing the Social Ecological Model of Health, this study considers multiple levels of influence on this spending, including organizational and community characteristics. Using quantitative analysis, it examines cross-sectional, spatial, and longitudinal patterns in spending and identifies organizational and community-level factors influencing it. Qualitative analysis investigates operational factors affecting spending, including individual and interpersonal influences. The results of this mixed-methods study can inform hospital administrators, public health officials, policymakers, and communities in optimizing policies and decision-making …

Addressing Barriers In The Primary Prevention Of Hypertension In Black People, Makalah Pierre Rn Bsn

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Hypertension is a significant health concern among minority groups, and the black population is most at risk (Abrahamowicz et al., 2023). The black population experience higher prevalence rates of hypertension compared to other racial groups and are more likely to experience hypertension-related problems, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD).  This literature review explores various nursing interventions aimed at preventing hypertension within this population. In this review, the term “black people or persons” is a broad term used to describe both African Americans and people of Afro-Caribbean decent. This includes various backgrounds such as Haitian, Jamaican, or otherwise …