Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons^™

Alfred Russel Wallace Notes 37. What About Wallace On Vaccination . . . ?, Charles H. Smith

Faculty/Staff Personal Papers

Best known for his natural history studies on evolution and biogeography, Alfred Russel Wallace (1823−1913) had a significant second career as a social critic. One of his most controversial stances was his position on (smallpox) vaccination. Anti-vaxxers of the present frequently bring up his name as a resource for their side, but the situation is not so easily reducible to that.

Increasing Colorectal Cancer Screening Rates For Patients Without Insurance, Andrea F. Day

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States (U.S.), ranking as second most prevalent overall. Despite many initiatives, screening rates remain low, especially among clinic patients without insurance. The lack of an evidence-based screening protocol exacerbates these issues and increases the risk of advanced cancer and death. Initial data showed that 0% of patients were screened according to recommended guidelines.

Purpose: The project implemented a standard screening protocol to increase colorectal cancer screening rates in a rural Alabama free clinic for patients ages 45-64 lacking insurance.

Project Design: This quality improvement …

Utilizing Text Messaging To Increase Annual Mammogram Screening Compliance, Lacey B. Santa Cruz

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Background: Routine mammography can lessen breast cancer deaths, but many patients do not follow the current screening guidelines. Limited access to mammography and insufficient awareness lead to missed screening appointments.

Purpose: The purpose of this Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project was to improve annual mammogram adherence among women aged 40-74 by implementing an electronic medical record (EMR)-based text reminder system.

Project Design: Secondary patient data was collected from a privately owned, rural family practice clinic. Using the Mobilize-Assess-Plan-Implement-Track (MAP-IT) quality improvement framework, the project implemented a text message reminder intervention through the EMR. Eligible patients received a text reminder …

The Diabetes Prevention Program And Its Outcomes Study: Niddk's Journey Into The Prevention Of Type 2 Diabetes And Its Public Health Impact, Jill P Crandall, Dana Dabelea, William C Knowler, David M Nathan, Marinella Temprosa, Dpp Research Group

Children’s Nutrition Research Center Staff Publications

The current-day epidemic of type 2 diabetes, largely driven by increased adiposity and reduced physical activity in the setting of genetic susceptibility, is a major public health challenge. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) presciently proposed the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), a multicenter randomized clinical trial, designed by investigators in conjunction with NIDDK staff and initiated in 1996. The primary goal of DPP was to determine whether an intensive lifestyle intervention (ILS) or metformin in comparison with placebo would reduce the development of diabetes in a high-risk population with prediabetes. After mean 2.8 years, ILS …

Improving Colorectal Cancer Screening Referrals In A Rural Health Clinic, Kysha Mcbee

All Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects

Problem: Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Preventive screening for colorectal cancer has been associated with early detection and improved 5-year survival rates. The referral rates for colorectal cancer screening at the practicum site were 17.7%, well below the national benchmarks of 71.8%.

Aim of the Project: The aim of this project was to increase the screening referral rates in adults aged 45 to 75 years by 50% over a ten-week period by implementing an evidence-based toolkit.

Review of the Evidence: Literature review highlighted barriers to colorectal cancer screening, such as knowledge …

Too Sweet To Ignore: How Ssb Intake And Physical Inactivity Affect Bmi In Malang’S Student Population, Indana Tri Rahmawati, Nurnaningsih Herya Ulfah, Anggi Renawati, Yuvica Novita Gunawan

Preventia: The Indonesian Journal of Public Health

The growing incidence of overweight and obesity in young adults has been closely associated with unhealthy lifestyle habits, particularly the high intake of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and low levels of physical activity. College students are especially at risk due to lifestyle changes that occur during their university experience. This research aims to investigate the SSB consumption patterns, physical activity levels, and their correlation with Body Mass Index (BMI) among university students in Malang City. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out with 382 active students chosen through accidental sampling. Data were obtained using an online questionnaire shared through student networks …

Scoring System For Screening Fitness To Work For Offshore And Onshore Remote Area Worker, Kasyunnil Kamal

Occupational and Environmental Medicine Journal of Indonesia

Background: About 10-15% of medical examinations of workers at upstream oil and gas companies are not conducted properly. In some cases, workers die at worksites. Many doctors carrying out the assessment lack the competency to assess occupational risks. In this study, we developed a scoring system for ‘fitness for work’ assessment, which can be used by trained doctors.

Methods: Diagnostic testing was done with comparing the results of the determination screening fitness for work using a scoring system with the determine fitness for work results by Occupational Medicine Specialist as a gold standard in the same group. The entire 607 …

Diarrhea Risk Factors Of Toddlers In Jember District, 2022, Annisa Fitrah Aini, Yunus Ariyanto, Adistha Eka Noveyani

Preventia: The Indonesian Journal of Public Health

Diarrhea is a disease characterized by passing feces three or more times a day. The occurrence of diarrhea is also influenced by sociodemographic factors (nutritional status) and environmental factors (access to clean water, access to sanitary latrines, and living in flood-prone areas). The purpose of this research focuses on finding risk factors for diarrhea and mapping the risk factors of diarrhea. This study used an ecological study design, in which the population is all sub-districts in Jember. Secondary data were used in this research. The data were analyzed using statistical correlation analysis using SPSS and mapping using GIS software. The …

The Effect Of Blue Light Filter Lens Glasses On The Occurrence Of Asthenopia Symptoms In Visual Display Terminal Users, Arif Hening Mustikaningrum, Dewi Sumaryani Soemarko, Indah Suci Widyahening

Occupational and Environmental Medicine Journal of Indonesia

The widespread use of Visual Display Terminals (VDTs) is associated with visual and musculoskeletal complaints, particularly Asthenopia, which may reduce productivity. A 32-year-old female financial worker presented with eye discomfort, including sore eyes, blurred vision, dizziness, and twitching on her left temple, particularly during extended computer use. The symptoms were relieved with rest. Most VDTs now use Light Emitting Diodes, which emit more blue light than LCDs and may cause eye fatigue and disrupt sleep. Currently, blue light filter lenses are available in the market, however, further study of existing scientific publications is necessary to ensure the effectiveness of blue …

Determinan Perilaku Minum Tablet Tambah Darah Pada Remaja Putri Menurut Health Belief Model: Studi Kualitatif, Tuti Surtimanah, Irfan Nafis Sjamsuddin

Perilaku dan Promosi Kesehatan : Indonesian Journal of Health Promotion and Behavior

Background. In 2018, 48.9% of adolescent girls in Indonesia were diagnosed with anemia. Knowledge about the definition, symptoms, and prevention of anemia, including the correct use of Iron Supplement Tablets (IST), is essential in the prevention of anemia. A deeper understanding of these behaviors is necessary to formulate effective educational messages. The Health Belief Model (HBM) is often used to explore and understand preventive behaviors.

Aim. To explore the determinants and practices of IST consumption among adolescent girls.

Method. This descriptive qualitative study used a phenomenological approach. Participants were selected purposively from adolescent girls. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, …

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 …

Factors Contributing To Low Back Pain Among Field Workers In Tanzania, Gerson De Leone, Don Noval, Amany Lorino, Ryan Lorino, Ruth Kajiru Nyika, Sozina Katuli

Adventist Human-Subject Researchers Association

Working in rice fields presents challenges to health that have grave consequences beyond back pain. Men and women in Kihurio village engage on a series of rice planting activities that affect the back. This study explores the factors to back problem in Tanzania and thrives to Identify corrective measures.

Profiling Of Physical Activity Usage In Selected Urban Green Spaces In Marikina City, Trizsa Jasmin C. Ty, Alberto L. Dimarucut, Camille B. Castro, Danielle Naomi L. Uy

CSID Journal of Infrastructure Development

Urban Green Spaces (UGS) play an important role in providing opportunities for physical activity in urbanized cities. This observational cross-sectional study aims to profile two selected UGS, namely Marikina River Park and Marikina Heights Park Complex, in Marikina City, in the context of their use for physical activity and recreation. Interviews with two government officials were conducted to collect data on the historical background of the selected parks. Systematic observation, using the System for Observation of Play and Recreation in Communities tool, was conducted to observe park visitors and their physical activity for four days in each park. Each park’s …

Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies Of Mississippi Initial Provider Engagement And Student Feedback Loop Project, Corban Jackson Mph, Jillian Harper-Peavy Lmsw, Imh-E, Starica Harper, Vernesia Wilson Phd, Mph

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Background Between 2017 and 2022, 83% of maternal deaths in Mississippi were preventable. Unfortunately, there is a persistent shortage of OB-GYNs in Mississippi, feeding the rise of maternal care deserts and the lapse in collaboration between providers and state maternal health organizations. Purpose Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies of Mississippi, a care management program for high-risk mothers and infants, has partnered with the Mississippi Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health initiative (AIM) to improve maternal health outcomes through building healthcare networks with existing providers. Methods 33 medical students from the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Medicine and William Carey University …

Increasing Community Members' Engagement In Cancer Research: The Making Research Clear Program, Rebecca J. Melillo, Christiane J. El Khoury, Joshua Blanding-Godbolt, Q. Greene, Karen M. Bussard, Amy Leader

Kimmel Cancer Center Faculty Papers

BACKGROUND: Despite the importance of engaging community members in research, multiple barriers from the perspective of the investigator and community member exist. The Making Research CLEAR (Community Learning and Experience about Research) Program aims to bridge the gap between research conducted at an NCI-designated cancer center and the community.

METHODS: Community members and a cancer center investigator were paired for a 6-month immersive research experience. Community members had at least one research experience per month with their investigator, while also attending cancer center activities such as Institutional Review Board (IRB) meetings, research lectures, protocol review meetings, and community outreach events. …

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 …

Sports And Physical Activity Of Poles In The Context Of Good Health And Well-Being As A Sustainable Development Goal, Elżbieta Biernat, Monika Piątkowska, Robert Podstawski

Baltic Journal of Health and Physical Activity

Investing in physical activity (PA) is vital for achieving sustainable development goals. We examine PA trends in Poland using data from Eurobarometer surveys conducted in 2013, 2017, and 2022. In 2022, 64.6% of Poles did not participate in sports, and 41.8% did not engage in non-sport PA. There is a concerning trend of increasing inactivity in sports (Chi²_2022/2017 = 34.64; p < 0.001; Chi²_2017/2013 = 56.98; p < 0.001) and non-sports PA (Chi²_2022/2017 = 18.3, p < 0.01 and Chi²_2017/2013 = 16.95, p < 0.01). Participation in sport and PA is influenced by individual, inter-personal, environmental, political, and global factors. Notably, there is an upward trend in interpersonal (e.g., club membership, volunteering), environmental (e.g., PA in parks/nature, at home), and political (e.g., dissatisfaction with local government actions) factors. Government intervention is crucial and requires: (1) establishment of an institution for leadership and advocacy of PA, (2) adoption of a cross-sectoral approach for a coordinated change, and (3) increased in-vestment in monitoring systems to track the impact of interventions. These actions are essential for fostering a more active and healthier population in Poland.

Virtual Versus In-Person Rose Program (La Luz) As Universal Prevention For Perinatal Depression: Protocol For A Randomized Controlled Trial In A Safety Net Hospital, Daphne Y. Liu, Nicholas S. Perry, Catherine H. Demers, Jennifer S. Hyer, Anely Alamo, Paige Vuksanovich, Nandi Dube, Erin R. Flanagan, Robert J. Gallop, Galena K. Rhoades, Elysia Poggi Davis

Psychology: Faculty Scholarship

Perinatal depression disproportionally affects underserved communities, who need effective and accessible prevention programs. Reach Out, Stay strong, Essentials for new mothers (ROSE) has demonstrated effectiveness in preventing postpartum depression in underserved populations when delivered in person. This ongoing randomized controlled trial (RCT) tests the novel virtual implementation of ROSE as universal prevention in a Federally Qualified Health Center setting. We adopted the name, La Luz, for ROSE to be culturally relevant to our population. Pregnant individuals < 30 gestational weeks (target N = 900) are randomized to either the virtual or in-person La Luz program, which consists of four 90-min group sessions. Groups are offered in English and Spanish, based on participants' preference. Participants complete surveys at seven timepoints: before program, 28 gestational weeks, 35 gestational weeks, and 6-weeks, 3-months, 6-months, and 12-months postpartum. Primary outcomes are postpartum depression severity measured by the 20-item Symptom Checklist (SCL-20) and 10-item Center of Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CESD-10). We will perform intent-to-treat analysis to test whether virtual La Luz is non-inferior to in-person La Luz. This study also evaluates implementation process and outcomes of both modalities of La Luz to inform the development of an implementation toolkit. This RCT contributes to our knowledge of perinatal depression prevention and addresses access barriers for underserved populations. If effectiveness of virtual La Luz is demonstrated, the new evidence for a scalable low-cost prevention can be used to reduce perinatal depression and offer accessible treatment options for people who face significant barriers to care.

Development Of Preventive Dental Guidelines In The Primary Healthcare Setting In Egypt: A Delphi Method, Basant Mehriz

Theses and Dissertations

This study addresses the critical need for standardized preventive dental care guidelines within Egypt's primary healthcare system amid the rising burden of oral diseases. Through a systematic two-phase methodology combining a comprehensive literature review and a Delphi consensus-building process engaging 35 dental professionals, the research established priorities for contextually appropriate preventive measures. The consensus framework revealed strong support for clinical interventions (mean of 83% agreement), particularly fluoride-based prevention; community initiatives (mean of 83%), especially school-based programs; policy measures (mean of 77%) such as workforce and educational development, though with variable support for taxation and social determinants approaches. Statistical analysis demonstrated …

Together We Thrive: A Co-Production Toolkit For People With Ms And Care Providers, E. Chandlee Bryan

Dartmouth College Master’s Theses

Nearly a million people in the U.S. have Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a progressive neurological disease. People with MS (PwMS), are more likely to have a decreased quality of life (QoL) and are at greater risk for unemployment, loneliness, and depression than people without MS. As MS symptoms can include fatigue, balance issues, mobility problems, and changes to bladder and bowel function, managing MS requires patient engagement that includes coordination of care between neurology, primary care, and specialists. This thesis was researched and written by a PwMS who has worked in collaboration with her neurologist, Dr. Andrew D. Smith III, and …