Community Health and Preventive Medicine Commons^™

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 …

Enhancing Mental Health Through Mind-Body Exercises In Sedentary Students: A Systematic Review With An Indonesian Perspective, Izmi Alya Khairunnisa, Aditya Denny Pratama

Jurnal Sosial Humaniora Terapan

Sedentary Behavior (SB) among students is associated with increased risks of depression, anxiety, stress, and weakened immune function. According to the WHO, SB contributes to approximately two million deaths each year. This systematic literature review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of mind-body exercises in improving mental health outcomes—specifically stress reduction, anxiety management, and emotional regulation—among students with sedentary lifestyles. Using the PRISMA framework, 2,201 articles were identified from databases including Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest, with six studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The review found that mind-body exercises such as yoga, tai chi, and pilates significantly reduce stress and anxiety, enhance …

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 …

Childhood Myopia Part Ii: Treatment Mechanisms, Emerging Options, And Considerations, Safal Khanal Dr, Erin S. Tomiyama Dr, Síofra Harrington Dr

Articles

Abstract

The rapidly increasing prevalence of myopia and its association with vision-threatening complications in later life has intensified efforts to identify treatments that can prevent the onset and slow the progression of myopia in children. These efforts have led to the development of several optical, environmental, and pharmacological myopia control treatments. Investigations of additional treatment options are ongoing and have shown great promise for clinical translation. Although significant progress has been made in identifying potential pathways and modes of action of these treatments, a complete mechanistic understanding is still lacking. This critical review article explores the potential mechanisms underlying the …

Functional Resilience Of Healthcare In The Critical Juncture Of The Covid-19 Pandemic, Avner Kronisch, Christian Bongiorno, Kerane Smith, John Baker

Working Papers Series

This paper offers a comparative analysis of eight national healthcare systems—spanning democracies, autocracies, and various institutional models—to evaluate resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on Shvetsova et al.’s framework of informational and authority redundancies, and Parker & Klein’s “choke point” theory of healthcare rationing, we examine how institutional structure shaped pandemic response, system adaptability, and continuity of non-COVID services. Using indicators like life expectancy, under-five mortality, hospital capacity, cancer survival, and excess mortality, we explore how systems absorbed shock and maintained essential care. We find that decentralized and polycentric governance structures, when paired with coordination and resource adequacy, enhanced resilience—exemplified …

Public Health Simulation Infused Program (Pship) Toolkit, Desiree A. Díaz, Mindi Anderson, Francisco Guido-Sanz, Peggy Hill, Samantha Stephenson, Heather Peralta, Syretta Spears, Geraldine Luzincourt

Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works

Project Narrative

PURPOSE AND NEED

Purpose: Priorities set forth by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) are addressed in the proposed simulation program in an effort to meet curricular needs and foster care to the medically underserved in Florida, further exposing students to public healthcare needs. Interprofessional (nursing and social work) and intraprofessional (undergraduate nurse and Nurse Practitioner [NP]) instruction is essential in the simulation-based education (SBE) program, promoting important content on identifying risk factors and health assessment of the medically underserved community (MUC) (Education Priority 2, §831). Coordination of medical care is a vicarious learning opportunity for all …

Walk A Mile: Exploring Cause-Based Charity Event Participation As A Catalyst For Increasing Physical Activity Behavior, Kimberly S. Fasczewski, Andrey A. Sanko Posada, Meg Hopkins

Journal of Social, Behavioral, and Health Sciences

Despite the known benefits of physical activity (PA), more than half of U.S. adults do not meet the American College of Sports Medicine’s PA recommendations for health, often resulting in negative health outcomes. Developing programming that increases motivation for PA participation is critical for healthcare professionals to combat physical inactivity. Previous research has demonstrated that framing disease-based PA charity fundraising events as “helping a cause” improved motivation for PA due to the individual’s emotional connection to the cause. There is currently no congruent research on motivation for participation in cause-based charity events. Behavioral economics theory posits that cognitive, emotional, and …

Blueprint For A Youth Violence Intervention Program In East Baton Rouge Parish: Adapting Hospital-Based Strategies, Kristina G. Little, Elizabeth Winchester, Judith L F Rhodes

Reports

Youth violence in East Baton Rouge Parish remains a persistent public safety and public health challenge. This report proposes an adapted, evidence-informed model for East Baton Rouge Parish that retains the core components of traditional HVIPs while leveraging existing legal, hospital, and social service resources. The model is grounded in a public health framework and emphasizes trauma-informed, bedside intervention at the “teachable moment” when youth are most receptive to change, and long-term wraparound case management. The report concludes with recommendations for implementing this adapted approach, including identifying a health system champion, building referral protocols, embedding training, and developing a long-term …

Stress And Burnout: Is There A ‘Happily Ever After’?, Margaret S. Gingrich D.D.S.

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Executive Summary Dental professionals experience significant stress and burnout due to high patient expectations, challenging patients, employee management issues, and insurance complexities. Dr. Margaret Gingrich outlines Christina Maslach's six stages of burnout, from the honeymoon phase to reduced personal accomplishment. Recovery requires intentional rest following the "rule of 42" - dedicating 42% of daily time to various forms of rest, including physical, emotional, sensory, mental, spiritual, social, and creative restoration. Key strategies involve setting boundaries, saying no, taking breaks, seeking social support, and, when necessary, terminating problematic patient relationships. The Michigan Dental Association and American Dental Association provide wellness resources, …

How Do Health Insurer Practices Affect Health Equity For Gay And Bisexual Men And Transmasculine Individuals? A Qualitative And Health Policy Assessment, Alexa D'Angelo

Dissertations and Theses

In the U.S. there continue to be stark disparities in health that affect LGBTQ+ communities. These disparities include those related to mental health, sexually transmitted infections, along with chronic illnesses and some cancers. Higher health needs across diagnostic categories mean that LGBTQ+ individuals require access to the healthcare system both to prevent conditions disproportionately affecting the community, and to treat conditions as they arise. In the U.S., access to healthcare often requires either reliable insurance coverage or another payer to cover costs associated with care. Thus, health insurance status and coverage of care, along with coverage regulations and health policies …

Digesting The Details: How Cooking Shapes The Microbiome And Influences Obesity, Tracy Lieu

University Honors Theses

Obesity is a growing global health concern linked to chronic diseases and changes in the gut microbiome. While diet is known to affect gut microbes, less attention has been given to how food processing methods, such as heating, fermentation, and cold processing, change food in ways that influence the gut microbiome and health. This thesis reviews research on how different cooking and preparation techniques affect the availability of nutrients for microbial fermentation and the resulting effects on microbial diversity and metabolism. The findings show that fermentation and cold processing are the most supportive of gut health. These methods help preserve …

Prosthesis, Alexander A. Grosek

Masters Theses

This thesis explores the hospital as a prosthetic—a structural and spatial support for the human body in moments of vulnerability. Like a crutch or cast, the hospital temporarily supports patients in their transition from horizontal (infirm) to vertical (mobile), yet its architecture often fails to contribute meaningfully to that healing process. While clinical treatment is prioritized, the spatial, emotional, and sensory dimensions of care are neglected. What supports what becomes a central question: the building holds the body, but the body also gives meaning to the building. Their relationship is reciprocal.

Rather than proving that good design improves health—an idea …

Investigating The Associations Of Cognitive Health, Health Behaviors, And Personality In Older Community-Dwelling Adults, Yan-Jhu Su

Graduate Doctoral Dissertations

Cognitive decline poses a significant public health challenge, with profound implications for aging populations. This dissertation investigates the associations between health behaviors, leisure activities, personality traits, and cognitive function in older U.S. adults, using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and the Consumption and Activities Mail Survey (CAMS). This work comprises three studies that explore both cross-sectional and longitudinal perspectives on cognitive aging.

Study 1 examines the complex interactions between personality traits, education, health behaviors, and cognitive function. The study is divided into two parts: Study 1a explores the role of health behaviors—smoking, alcohol use, and physical activity—as …

Understanding Vaccine Hesitancy And Barriers To Access In Hispanic Individuals Of Metro Detroit​, Rafael Ramos, John Gallegher, Nevil Khurana, Ingrid Rocha, Rene Andino-Galva, Izabel Thomas, Deni Peterson, Alexander Eskandarian, Eliezer Arody Gomez, Md

Medical Student Research Symposium

Background:

Detroit’s Hispanic community is still disproportionally uninsured at about 2x the rate of non-Hispanic white and 3x the rate of non-Hispanic Black residents. In the post-COVID era, vaccine hesitancy and barriers to access have been well-documented. Studies suggest that minority populations, including the Hispanic population, may experience unique social determinants of health which affect their vaccination rates and outcomes. Additionally, research shows that knowledge of vaccines may correlate with levels of trust.

Methods:

We sought to describe the knowledge, barriers to access, and levels of trust regarding the influenza (flu) vaccine in Hispanic individuals of Metro Detroit. We used …