Second , we show that network composition , individual network central ity , and network structure are associated with important health behaviors and health and development outcomes in different context s across multiple levels of analysis and across distinct network types .
Lastly , we highlight the opportunities for health research ers and practitioners in LMICs to 1 ) design effective studies and interventions in LMICs that account for the sociocentric network positions of certain individuals and overall network structure , 2 ) measure the spread of outcomes or intervention externalities , and 3 ) enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of aid based on knowledge of social structure .
In low- and middle-income countries ( LMICs ) , naturally occurring social networks may be particularly vital to health outcomes as extended webs of social ties often are the principal source of various re sources .
Emergence and Robustness of a Community Discussion Network on Mercury Contamination and Health in the Brazilian Amazon
Information exchanges , debates , and negotiations through community social networks are essential to ensure the sustainability of the development process initiated in participatory research . The authors analyze the structural properties and robustness of a discussion network about mercury issues in a community in the Brazilian Amazon involved in a participatory research aim ed at reducing exposure to the pollutant . Most of the villagers are connected in a large network and are separated from other individuals by few intermediaries . The structure of the discussion network displays resilience to the r and om elimination of villagers but shows vulnerability to the removal of one villager who has been a long-term collaborator of the project . Although the network exhibits a structure likely to favor an efficient flow of information , results show that specific actions should be taken to stimulate the emergence of a pool of opinion leaders and increase the redundancy of discussion channels
Second , we show that network composition , individual network central ity , and network structure are associated with important health behaviors and health and development outcomes in different context s across multiple levels of analysis and across distinct network types .
Lastly , we highlight the opportunities for health research ers and practitioners in LMICs to 1 ) design effective studies and interventions in LMICs that account for the sociocentric network positions of certain individuals and overall network structure , 2 ) measure the spread of outcomes or intervention externalities , and 3 ) enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of aid based on knowledge of social structure .
In low- and middle-income countries ( LMICs ) , naturally occurring social networks may be particularly vital to health outcomes as extended webs of social ties often are the principal source of various re sources .