Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons^™

Food Stamp Participation And Health Outcomes In Ca Immigrants, Esther Kang

Scripps Senior Theses

The U.S. social welfare system includes programs aiming to increase access to nutritious food to reduce nutrition insecurity. However, studies suggest that immigrants continue to face disproportionate risks of nutrition insecurity and may face barriers to enrollment due to legal status. This study, using secondary data from the 2023 California Health Interview Survey, examines the associations between food stamp participation, food insecurity, and clinical diagnosis of diabetes among adult U.S.-born, naturalized, and non-citizen adults in California. The findings suggest that those enrolled in food stamps are more likely to report food insecurity than those who are not enrolled, and that …

The Connection Between Medicaid And Obesity In Northeast Ohio, Sophie Kheder, Emmie Kelley

Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects

Obesity is a major public health concern in the United States that is projected to increase exponentially over the next few years. Obesity is commonly associated with a lower socioeconomic status. Lower-income individuals tend to be supported by Medicaid, a federal insurance program for low-income Americans. Prior studies have shown a positive correlation between income status and obesity prevalence. Our goal was to find if there was a correlation between Medicaid patients and obesity in Northeast Ohio, to provide physicians with a set of characteristics to better combat obesity, since preventative and treatment guidelines are tailored to national trends. We …

The Role Of Resistance Training In Managing Menopause-Related Changes, Alyson K. Strauss

Honors Undergraduate Theses

Resistance training serves as a critical non-pharmacological strategy for mitigating the physiological and psychological declines associated with the menopausal transition. This natural biological phase, marked by declining estrogen levels, typically leads to accelerated bone mineral density loss, sarcopenia, metabolic regulation disturbance, and heightened mood disturbances. To evaluate the efficacy of targeted exercise interventions, a systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. From an initial pool of 60 relevant articles, 13 studies met the specific inclusion criteria, focusing on structured resistance training protocols for perimenopausal, menopausal, and postmenopausal cohorts.

The synthesis of these studies indicates that resistance training is a highly …

Transition To Home Guideline For Patients With Diabetes, Kathleen R. Burgner

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Background: Diabetes is a leading contributor to preventable hospital readmissions. These hospital readmissions often result from fragmented discharge planning, poor care coordination, and limited post-discharge support. At a 915-bed academic medical center in Southern California, the diabetes-related readmission rate was 13.3%, compared with 11.4% among patients without diabetes. This project aimed to develop an evidence-based Transition-to-Home (TTH) guideline for hospitalized patients with diabetes and evaluate the strength of its recommendations through multidisciplinary stakeholder review.

Methods: An evidence-based guideline development project was conducted over 8 weeks. A comprehensive literature search in CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, and ScienceDirect identified current evidence on transitional …

Embracing Imperfection And Stress As The Foundation For Growth, Excellence, And Well-Being In Dentistry, John W. Claytor Jr., Dds, Magd-Llsr, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

Studies reveal that stress in dentistry begins early in training and may progress throughout a dentist’s career. Fear of managing patient dissatisfaction, demanding schedules, time constraints, staff issues, and the stressors of clinical dentistry all contribute to professional strain. Difficulties associated with perfectionistic tendencies, burnout, and mental health concerns remain ever-present challenges within the profession. This article discusses evidence-based strategies, coping skills, organizational approaches, and professional resources that may help mitigate the effects of stress in dentistry. Particular emphasis is placed on reducing stigma surrounding mental health care and supporting initiatives such as the Lorna Breen Heroes Foundation’s “Safe Haven” …

Colorectal Cancer Screening In Carceral Settings: Barriers And Opportunities To Improve Early Detection Among Incarcerated Individuals, Daven K. Sarikonda Ba, Elijah Marquez Bs, Alexander Seidel Ba, Christine Larrea Bs, Jack S. Gurwin Bs, Maria Karla Bermúdez Piñero Ba, Suraj Suresh M.D., Laura Benjamins Md, Mph, Faap, Aahivs

Population, Patient, Physician and Professionalism Projects

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, with screening shown to significantly reduce mortality. However, incarcerated individuals experience substantially lower CRC screening rates and often present with more advanced disease than non-incarcerated individuals. Our project’s objective was to review the state of CRC screening in U.S. carceral settings, along with exploring possible alternatives to address the substantial disparity in CRC screening rates experienced by the incarcerated population.

The Impact Of Substance Abuse Problems And Serious Mental Illness/Serious Emotional Distress On Post-Discharge Residential Status Among Clients With Behavioral And Cognitive Disorders: Evidence From Samhsa Mh-Cld Data, Eden Moges, Norma Rochez, William Peycha, Aditya Chakraborty

Epidemiology, Biostatistics, & Environmental Health Faculty Publications

BACKGROUND: Behavioral and cognitive disorders can undermine housing stability, a key determinant of mental health recovery, with persistent disparities across demographic and socioeconomic groups. This study examined the associations of substance abuse problems (SAP) and serious mental illness/serious emotional distress (SMISED) with residential status at discharge from mental health facilities.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study used the utilized data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics, whereas univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to assess associations between the covariates and the residential outcome, adjusting for a variety of …

Examining The Barriers To Healthcare Among Native Hawaiian And Pacific Islander Populations Living In Hawaii, Gracie L. Kaye

Honors Undergraduate Theses

The state of Hawaii was annexed by the United States in 1898, and served as a starting point from which the U.S. influenced Hawaii's socioeconomic conditions and healthcare access. The literature review examines healthcare views and outcomes among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander residents, utilizing various tools and resources to investigate how these factors have impacted overall health statistics and the reasons behind these trends. Results found that the western colonization of the island and the disease outbreaks led to an initial mistrust of “western ideas.” Additionally, due to long-standing cultural beliefs, there is a natural preference for traditional cultural …

Exploring Psychological Safety And Workforce Experiences Among Employees In Recovery Community Organizations In The Southern United States: A Qualitative Study, Claire-Lorentz Ugo-Ike

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

This qualitative study explored how employees in Recovery Community Organizations (RCOs) in the Southern United States experience psychological safety and how these experiences shape employee well-being and their intentions to stay or leave their organizations. Guided by Edmondson’s Psychological Safety Theory and the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, the study examined how leadership practices, workplace culture, and the emotional demands of recovery support work shape employees’ perception of safety, support, and sustainability in the workforce. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 RCO employees working in various peer support roles. Thematic analysis identified five major themes: (1) leadership behaviors shape psychological safety …

Analysis Of Risk Factors And Current Programs For Addressing Injuries In Children And Adolescents, Jahfel Nial Jones Iii

Theses and Dissertations

Unintentional injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children and adolescents in the United States. These injuries result from various causes, including motor vehicle crashes, falls, suffocation, and poisoning. This capstone project examines the prevalence, risk factors, and prevention strategies for unintentional injuries among infants, children, and adolescents. Using a public health approach, this research explores evidence-based interventions and community-based programs that effectively reduce injury-related mortality. The project also incorporates data and insights from the Safe Kids Columbus program at Piedmont Columbus Regional, where various injury prevention initiatives have been implemented.

Findings revealed that motor vehicle crashes …

Exploring The Impact Of Adverse Childhood Experiences On Preventive Healthcare Utilization In Rural Georgia, Ryan R. Traylor

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

This study examines the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and preventive healthcare use among adults in Georgia, specifically within rural populations facing structural barriers. Using 2023 Georgia Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data, the research analyzes associations between ACE exposure, rural residence, and preventive care outcomes, including physical exams and flu vaccinations. Guided by an intersectionally adapted version of Andersen’s Behavioral Model of Health Services Use, the study evaluates how predisposing factors, enabling resources, and perceived barriers relate to healthcare engagement. Logistic regression analyses assess the correlation of ACE exposure, cost barriers, provider access, and sociodemographics with preventive …

Association Between A Lifestyle Medicine Score And Stroke In U.S. Adults With Hyperglycemia: 2007- 2010 Nhanes, Swarnima Naithani

UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The relationship between glycemic control and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is well- established, however, lifestyle modifications to prevent CVD warrant further investigation. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between adherence to the six lifestyle medicine pillars promoted by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and stroke in U.S. adults with hyperglycemia. A lifestyle medicine composite score (LMS) was developed to quantify adherence with the hypothesis that a higher LMS (greater adherence to lifestyle recommendations) correlates with lower odds of stroke in adults with hyperglycemia. Methods: The study sample (n=2,079) included adult (≥ 40 years of age) participants in the …

How Dentists Can Remain Advisors Of Merit To Their Patients, Daniel L. Orr Ii, Dds, Ms (Anesth), Phd, Jd, Md, Facd (Nevada Section Chair)

Journal of the American College of Dentists

This article examines how members of the dental profession can sustain their longstanding reputation as trusted advisors amid declining public confidence in major institutions. Grounded in ethical principles, informed consent, and professional self-regulation, dentistry has historically ranked among the most trusted professions. The discussion explores challenges to credibility, including media scrutiny, concerns about anesthesia safety, controversial treatment hesitancy, and debates over community water fluoridation. Emphasizing the concept of the “advisor of merit,” the author argues that continued trust depends on truthful communication, transparency about risks, respect for patient autonomy, and freedom from conflicts of interest in clinical and public health …

Empathy And Human-Centered Leadership In Community Health Center Dental Clinics, Pamela S. Alston Dds, Mpp, Facd

Journal of the American College of Dentists

A person-centered approach, with empathy toward patients, can improve satisfaction among both patients and dental health professionals. A dental director with a human-centered leadership style can improve the well-being of oral health team members. This article describes the role that empathy, a core value of humanism and professionalism, plays in accomplishing these improvements in community health center dental clinics. This article also describes the risks of empathy, as experienced by the author in her role as a dental director and practitioner, as well as documented in the literature. It further focuses on dental directors’ human-centered approaches to supporting oral health …

Rare Manifestation Of Scapular Cutaneous Larva Migrans Infection Among Sand Porters In Warm Climate: A Case Report, Prio Hangudi Sampurno, Tri Wisesa Soetisna

Occupational and Environmental Medicine Journal of Indonesia

Background Cutaneous larva migrans is a serpiginous helminthic infection common among certain occupations dealing with contaminated soil especially in warm climate. Most common predilections include the feet, legs, and buttocks with only a fraction of cases found on the trunk and upper extremities.

Case Presentation A rare scapular cutaneous larva migrans manifestation on a thirty-six years old sand porter with high occupational exposure was described. Physical examination revealed progressive pruritic and warm rash in a serpiginous pattern on the left shoulder.

Results Diagnosis was established based on characteristic serpiginous rash physical findings supported by history of contact. This case needed …

Incident Of Sensorineural Hearing Disorder In Toll Road Workers Exposed To Noise And Lead, Fitria Rimadhanty Setyaningtyas, Muhammad Ilyas, Dewi Yunia Fitriani, Suryo Wibowo

Occupational and Environmental Medicine Journal of Indonesia

Background Toll road workers are exposed to traffic noise and lead, both of which may increase the risk of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). This study aimed to examine the association between noise and lead exposure and the occurrence of SNHL among toll road workers.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data derived from medical check-up records of 1,445 toll road workers in 2022. Study variables included age, sex, length of employment, past medical history, smoking status, job position, blood lead levels and SNHL incidence. Descriptive analyses were performed, followed by bivariate analysis using the chi square test and …

Clinical Challenges Associated With Enhancing Hypertension Among The Underserved African American Population, Ashley Richardson

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Background 

African Americans face a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension, tend to develop complications at younger ages, and have disproportionately higher mortality rates. Key social determinants of health (SDoH)—including food deserts, unequal access to healthcare, and geographic disparities in healthcare resources—contribute to these ongoing inequities. Addressing both systemic and individual barriers is crucial for effective hypertension management.

Objective

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a culturally relevant, community-based intervention designed to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure among Black adults with uncontrolled hypertension.

Methods 

Quality improvement (QI) initiatives typically employ multicomponent, equity-focused models. The primary components of …

Overview Of Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Health Status 2025, Australian Indigenous Healthinfonet

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

This Overview provides a summary of the most recent indicators of the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (of all ages, where data are available). The topics included in the Overview cover chronic health conditions which are featured on the HealthInfoNet website. Over the years as additional funding has been obtained and in consultation with HealthInfoNet networks, more topics have been covered on the website and are now included in the Overview. The topics aim to reflect the status of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health over this period and going forward.

Translating Evidence Into Action: Understanding How Community- Based Practitioners Make Intervention Implementation Decisions In Practice, Kristin C. Bennett

Dissertations and Theses (Open Access)

This study examined how community-based practitioners implement public health interventions in practice settings to identify gaps between existing implementation frameworks and real-world practice. Six farmers' markets in Southeast Texas served as cases to understand implementation decision-making by community-based practitioners addressing food access challenges. A qualitative case study approach was employed, using semi-structured interviews with program adopters and key stakeholders to examine how practitioners addressed food access problems, selected interventions, and navigated implementation decisions. This methodology captured the contextual nature of implementation decision-making in community settings. The findings revealed that program adopters recognized health problems through lived experience rather than formal …

Health Risk Assessment (Hra) In Home-Based Ironing Businesses: Risk Identification, Intervention, And Evaluation In Johar Baru District, Central Jakarta, Heru Alfares, Irawadi Darmaputra, Marsen Isbayuputra, Muhammad Ilyas

Occupational and Environmental Medicine Journal of Indonesia

Background Home-based ironing businesses in Johar Baru District, Central Jakarta, are part of the informal sector, vulnerable to health risks due to suboptimal working conditions. This study aims to identify, assess, and control health risks through a Health Risk Assessment (HRA) approach.

Methods Research methods include direct observation, interviews, environmental measurements, health screenings, and ergonomic surveys using the BRIEF (Baseline Risk Identification of Ergonomic Factor) instrument.

Results The results indicate that the temperature in the ironing area reaches 33°C, exceeding the comfort standard, and that 80% of workers have dark yellow urine, indicating a high risk of dehydration. Risk assessment …