bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Descriptive Study of Community Health Education Jobs in the U.S.A., May – December 1998
Authors: Wu Larry
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore the community health education jobs in the USA and to provide relevant workforce information to community health education professionals and students. Two hundred fifty community health education announcements out of 908 were randomly selected from the Heath Education Professional Resources (HEPR) Job Bank for the periods May to December of 1998. Job information such as job searching methods, working environments, job qualifications, job descriptions, salaries, and benefits of community health education professionals were characterized. RESULTS: October had the highest number of job announcements during eighth-month period. There were more job announcements from the Northeast and West. Many of the job announcements were obtained through CareerPath® and America’s Job Bank®. There were at least 137 different job titles. The majority of institutions hiring health educators were either non-profit or government. About two-thirds were public organizations. The majority of the positions (86%) required applicants to have either a baccalaureate or master’s degree. There were diverse job qualifications. College majors other than health education or community health were acceptable. Work experience in descending order were: program planning and evaluation, program management, working with diverse populations, community organization and coordination, and working with multicultural populations in descending order. One to five years of working experience was required for the job positions. Target population and target issues were diverse. Almost half of the health educators served general health issues in their community. Computer skills, particularly word processing and Internet skills, were required. The capacity for working independently and self-motivation were significant factors in the hiring for most of the employers. Communication skills were required in 80% of the job announcements. Other required skills included program assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation, and teaching. For full-time employees, the median salary was $36,000. Other employee compensation information is also reported.
Things To Look Forward To…
Authors: Nevarez Holly
Published: July 2019

A health education doctoral student at Oregon State University gives her perspective on life as a doctoral student. She wrestles with the questions, “What is your area of interest?” and What are you going to do?”.
Native Hawaiian Health in Hawaii
Authors: Hope Bradley E. , Hope Janette Harbottle
Published: July 2019

The Hawaiians still have evidence of remarkable spiritual, mental, and physical illness since western contact over two centuries ago. Their pure blooded population has decreased by more than 98% but the mixed Hawaiians are approximately near pre-contact pure blooded levels, at 400,000. 60,000 (15%) people with Hawaiian ancestry now live in California. This paper attempts to provide a detailed but concise historical summary of health in Hawaii and of Native Hawaiians. Also, an attempt is made to educate health providers, and to help them take better care of their Native Hawaiian and traditional patients.
Kaho'olawe and the Makahiki Ceremony
Authors: Lum Burt
Published: July 2019

This paper discusses the revival of the Makahiki Ceremony and the healing of land and culture on the Hawaiian island of Kaho`olawe by Protect Kaho`olawe Ohana and the Edith Kanaka`ole Foundation. The Makahiki Ceremony process is discussed.
Estimates of Disability Among Ethnic Groups in Hawaii
Authors: Pobutsky Ann M. , Hirokawa Robert , Reyes-Salvail Florentina
Published: July 2019

Objective: To estimate and describe the current prevalence of disability among Hawaii’s population. Design, Setting, and Participants: Random-digit telephone survey of 6,000 adults aged 18 and older residing in Hawaii and participating in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System in 2002 and the 2000 US Census. Main Outcome Measures: Any disability, indicators of disability severity by ethnicity, age, and gender. Results: Filipinos and Native Hawaiians are experiencing higher age-specific levels of disability when compared with their Japanese and White counterparts. Within the working-aged population, Native Hawaiians experience a more severe level of disability than other ethnic groups. Within the elderly population, it appears that Filipinos experience a more severe level of disability. One third of Native Hawaiians attribute their disability to the effects of a stroke, one third of Filipinos attribute their disability to the effects of heart disease, and one fourth to one third of Whites and Japanese who attribute their disability to arthritis. Conclusions: We have described the current prevalence of disability among Hawaii’s population based on two established population-based surveillance systems: The US Census and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Preliminary findings suggest that Native Hawaiians and Filipinos may be experiencing more severe levels of disability. The data also suggests that disability among Native Hawaiians and Filipinos may be associated with stroke and heart disease. More information is needed about disability and health among ethnic groups in Hawaii and the Pacific region. Population aging in Hawaii, as well as the increase in non-communicable diseases will result in larger numbers of people with disabilities who will need health and other services.
Viewpoints on Accreditation from Health Education Professionals and Administrators of Academic Professional Preparation Programs
Authors: Bernhardt Jay M. , Videto Donna M. , Widdall Christine L. , Chen W. William , Airhihenbuwa Collins , Allegrante John P.
Published: July 2019

The health education profession has made significant strides in promoting quality assurance for credentialing of health educators through a combination of individual certification and program approval and accreditation mechanisms. Although the profession has widely embraced individual certification, program accreditation has not been uniformly accepted nor implemented. The National Task Force on Accreditation in Health Education was charged to develop a detailed plan for a coordinated accreditation system for undergraduate and graduate programs in health education. One of the goals of the task force was to gather professionwide input into any proposed new system. We conducted two Web-based surveys to assess viewpoints on accreditation and program approval from health education professionals (n=506) and from faculty and administrators at academic programs in health education (n=105). Results from the surveys show that the majority of professionals in the field and at academic programs surveyed supported and would participate in a national, coordinated, professionwide accreditation system in health education. Furthermore, the majority of respondents suggested that the accreditation system should be comprehensive, flexible, build on the strengths of existing accreditation systems, and be linked to individual certification. Findings from these surveys, along with other input from the field, will help inform the final recommendations of the task force.
Health Education Perspective on Sexual Risk Taking Behavior in Perimenopausal Women
Authors: Thomas Silvea
Published: July 2019

Perimenopausal women between the ages of 45-55 years, experiencing the physical, emotional, social and mental metamorphosis, are often overlooked when sexually transmitted disease issues are addressed. They are often not viewed as risk takers. Yet millions are as vulnerable as the young for sexually transmitted diseases. These women are being described as risk takers for a variety of reasons including a lack of knowledge, low condom use, society’s unawareness, myths regarding their asexuality, the noninclusion approach of the media to sexually transmitted diseases risk for this group and the lack of readily available data to support societal attention and action. The need for inclusive health education strategies is suggested. Health educators need to be proactive and at the same time prepare perimenopausal women to become their own advocates.
Applying the Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education
Authors: Schmalz Kathleen , Feyl Steve , Schmalz IV Edward A.
Published: July 2019

It is frequently noted by college professors that students are ill prepared to conduct proper research. In order to address this problem, the authors discuss the use of a set of instructions to enable students to reach their writing potential. The Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education by Chickering and Gamson (1987) formulate a set of guidelines to improve teaching and learning. This paper will list the seven principles followed by the approach that the authors took in adhering to the principles.
Analysis of the Freshmen Alcohol Abuse Program
Authors: Brown J. Joshua
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study is to assess outcomes of the Freshmen Alcohol Abuse Program in reducing BAC levels among freshmen students and to describe and learn about the patterns of drinking behaviors. This program is a combination of the “Wanna Know” and “Did You Know” campaigns. The Wanna Know campaign consisted of a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test with a Breathalyzer® device and an interview with freshmen students on unannounced weekend “partying nights” on a northern California university campus. The interviews and breath tests totaled 1,314 in year one and 1,215 in year two. The Did You Know campaign was the component that focused on distributing social norming messages. Social norming messages were delivered through posters on campus, screensavers in student computing labs, mouse pads, brochures, table tent cards, and t-shirts. These messages were designed to curb drinking by making students aware of the actual drinking norms rather than the students’ perceived norms with the intent that students would adjust to the actual norm, resulting in a reduction in drinking. Results indicated mean BAC levels of .068 in year one and .056 in year two. This represents a drop of .012 BAC, or a 21.4 percent decline from year one to year two.
Informal Female Caregivers of Older Adults with Dementia in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Chiung-Yu
Published: July 2019

Family care givers providing a major portion of care giving often experience stress related to the negative consequences for their health. Female care givers often more heavily involved care giving activities than males. Care givers’ gender studies have seldom conducted in Taiwan. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship of demographic factors and coping on health of female care givers of older adults with dementia in Taiwan. In addition, whether coping mediated or moderated the relationship between stress and care giver’s health was also examined. Lazarus and Folkman’s Stress model guided this study. Using a secondary data analysis method, this study examined data collected from the family care givers of older adults with dementia (2002). One hundred and three female care givers were analyzed by applying Pearson correlation, simple and multiple regression analysis. The findings showed care givers who are younger, more income, and with helpers had better health. Care givers who had less income, without helpers, and caring for care recipients with more behavioral problems had more depressive symptoms. In addition, mediating effect of avoidance coping was supported in this study. The data analysis from this study will provide a basis for nurses to develop interventions that minimize the negative impacts on female care givers.
Primary Health Care and Aging
Authors: Pelaez Martha , Rice Marilyn
Published: July 2019

From 21-25 February 2000, in San Jose, Costa Rica, a WHO Consultative Group was held on the topic of Primary Health Care for Older Persons, with representatives from 13 countries from around the world, as well as Headquarters and Regional offices of WHO and the private sector. In the policy statement that emerged from the meeting four basic principles were highlighted: universal accessibility and coverage on the basis of need, community and individual involvement, intersectoral action for health, and appropriate use of cost effective technologies in relation to the available resources. Three complementary integration functions are mentioned: functional with an integrated approach to the health needs of individuals over their life course taking precedence over episodic management of disease; organizational, with a focus on how health centers should function with interdisciplinary teams; and educational which addresses the knowledge and skills and attitudes needed by health professionals that will facilitate communication, networking, advocacy and mediation of resources. The proceedings go on to outline the objectives to be included in national plans on health of older people, as well as the extended benefits and outcomes to be expected from PHC strategies for older people. In promoting quality of care for older persons, positive and negative factors are mentioned, as are strategies to: stimulate interest in geriatric care, motivate general practitioners to focus on the care of elders, encourage teamwork among PHC staff, and encourage multi-sectoral collaboration in promoting the health of older persons. An example is provided of healthy ageing from Canada. The recommendations include defining and measuring an ageing friendly health center (with specific indicators for the latter), defining the role of the PHC team in promoting healthy ageing, characteristics that programs should have to promote “age friendly” services in the primary care setting, and outcome indicators for quality of care of elders at the PHC level.
Public Posting as a Strategy to Increase Walking
Authors: Earney Rayleen , Bungum Timothy J.
Published: July 2019

Because most American adults do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines, the need for new and innovative strategies is apparent. The current study employed public posting in an attempt to increase walking behavior in a worksite setting. Pedometer generated data was publicly posted in a prominent location in the worksite. In our study that utilized a pre-experimental design, we found that walking steps were statistically higher during the intervention and in a post intervention period as compared to the baseline data. We conclude that the public posting of physical activity data has the potential to increase walking behavior.
Survey of Dietary and Exercise Habits and Perceived Barriers to Following a Healthy Lifestyle in a College Population
Authors: Silliman Kathryn , Rodas-Fortier Kathleen , Neyman Michelle
Published: July 2019

The authors assessed the diet and exercise habits and perceived barriers to following a healthy lifestyle of 471 college students. Sixty percent of the participants were female and 31% had BMIs > 25. Breakfast was the most commonly missed meal and 63% of students snacked one to two times per day. Fifty-eight percent of participants ate vegetables and 64% ate whole or canned fruit less than once per day. Men consumed more soda and alcohol and used higher fat dairy, ate more meat, and ate fewer vegetables and fruits than women. Over half of the subjects rated their diet as poor or fair with “lack of time” listed as the number one barrier to eating well. Men exercised more frequently and at greater intensity than women and were more confident with their body image. The most common barrier to exercise was “lack of time.” The results of this study have implications for the design of general and specific diet and physical activity interventions among college students.
Application of a Justice as Fairness Perspective to Laws Banning Same-Sex Marriage
Authors: Dobbs Rhonda R.
Published: July 2019

This paper utilizes John Rawls’ theory of Justice as Fairness to assess laws banning same-sex marriage. It is argued that such laws are unjust from this perspective in that they do serve to disadvantage homosexuals in regards to the legal benefits of marriage. In addition, legal unions (i.e. domestic partnerships or civil unions) that stop short of marriage do not compensate for this unjustness in that they do not offer the same legal benefits of marriage.
Straight Spouses Speak Out
Authors: Buxton Amity Pierce , Schwartz Lisa B.
Published: July 2019

This article highlights the experiences of straight spouses who have weathered the ìcoming outî storm of their partners and their views of same-gender marriage. Experiences of shock, denial, and for some, relief, are chronicled, along with post-disclosure stories of coping and family life outcomes. An overview of mixed-orientation marriage and children from these marriages are discussed.
Promoting Appropriate Antibiotic Use
Authors: Steiner Elizabeth , Saddler Laura C. , Fagnan Lyle J.
Published: July 2019

Antibiotic resistance is a major public health threat that requires an organized, comprehensive approach to overcome. Many studies have shown that integrating education programs for clinicians, medical office staff, patients, and targeted audiences such as day care providers make the biggest difference in community-wide antibiotic use. We describe such an integrated approach between our state’s public health programs and our developing curriculum for primary care residents based at the academic health center. Patients receive education directly from both the state programs and their clinicians during office visits for upper respiratory infections. Physicians learn principles of appropriate antibiotic use, how best to educate patients about this important health topic, and how to address patients’ concerns about their illnesses.
Oregon WIC Program at 30
Authors: Reeder Julie Ann
Published: July 2019

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has evolved from a commodity supplemental food program to a primary source of nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion and support, and referrals for pregnant women and families with young children. With an increased emphasis on addressing complex health issue such as obesity, the State of Oregon WIC program sought better understand the personal and professional backgrounds of those delivering WIC services. The goal of this article is to describe 1) who is delivering nutrition education and determining nutritional risk in the Oregon WIC program, 2) what training they have received, and 3) what additional training they would like to receive. Data were gathered through self-administered questionnaires from three hundred and five local agency WIC staff representing the 34 local WIC agencies in Oregon. Only one-third of local agency staff had earned a Bachelor’s degree or higher and the amount of additional training received varied considerably. While the majority of staff felt they had received sufficient training to do their jobs, when asked specifically about completion of required training modules a number of gaps were evident. Respondents expressed interest in expanding training methods beyond written modules and requested training materials in languages other than English. In addition, a lack of continuing education opportunities for paraprofessional staff was noted. An expansion of methods for local agency staff to achieve desired competencies for their position is needed. Communication with decision makers about the importance of supporting training opportunities, particularly for paraprofessional is vital.
Confronting College Student Drinking
Authors: Esteban Manuel , Schafer Walt
Published: July 2019

California State University, Chico is a mid-sized, comprehensive public university with a bright history. This campus has a long and proud legacy of academic quality and notable accomplishments by faculty and students. This positive history, however, has been clouded by a darker story. At the center of this shadow side is student alcohol abuse and the school’s reputation as a “party school.” To be sure, this “party school” story has been embellished by mass media and hand-me-down tales of drinking bravado. Still, student drinking has long been a challenge for campus leaders at CSU, Chico, constantly threatening the quality of academic life, as well as student health and safety. This report describes the history of the student alcohol issue at CSU, Chico and of campus efforts to prevent alcohol abuse. After placing this campus’ experience in a national context, we trace the origins and course of the “party school” legacy at CSU, Chico from the 1920s onward. We then describe the beginnings of prevention efforts in focused prevention efforts after the infamous Pioneer Days riot of 1987. Recent data on student drinking are presented, based on questionnaires and breath-testing surveys. We then describe how the campus has sought to broaden and intensify its prevention efforts within a social ecology framework. These steps have focused on shaping conditions in the campus and community likely to influence students’ choices about drinking. Longitudinal data are then presented to address whether these efforts have made a difference. Lessons are drawn, and recommendations are offered other college campuses for preventing student alcohol abuse. These recommendations assume that student alcohol abuse is a multi-causal problem, the result of a host of influences, including societal context, family background, attitudes and values, community context, and curricular and co-curricular factors on the campus. Therefore, prevention programs must be comprehensive, focusing both on students’ own attitudes and on environmental influences within the institution’s control in the community and campus. The social ecology framework with its focus on the individual and on environmental management is very useful for guiding such efforts
Strategic Insight on Gaining Admittance to Graduate Study
Authors: Strasser Sheryl M. , Annang Lucy , Muilenburg Jessica L. , Etienne Marc O.
Published: July 2019

Applying to graduate school involves strategic planning and preparation. There is an array of considerations and factors that can influence the decision to pursue masters- level education and beyond. A brief synopsis of the graduate school application process is provided so that individuals pursuing a higher level of academia can gain insight on how to optimize their chance of attaining acceptance into programs of choice.
Children’s Poster Contest on Healthy Eating
Authors: Morton Suzanne , Tuff Reagan , Beckwith Kelly , Banks Maia , Dixon-Terry Eleanor
Published: July 2019

Objective: To encourage children in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades to learn about good nutrition and display their knowledge in an attractive poster. Method: A children’s poster contest was conducted through schools in the Washington, DC metro area in conjunction with the 2004 National Health Education Week’s campaign, “Healthy Eating – Every Bite Counts!”. Posters were judged on a 100 point scale, and six winners were chosen for each grade level. The children with the winning posters received cash prizes and were honored at an awards ceremony at the Society for Public Health Education’s (SOPHE) annual meeting. Results: Eligible entries were received from 76 students at 14 schools in the Arlington, VA and Washington, DC school districts. Almost all of the posters showed a good knowledge of nutrition by the students. Conclusion: National Health Education Week themes that are specific to children should encourage participation among schools, teachers, and parents. Partnerships offer possibilities for dissemination of public health education campaigns. A children’s poster contest about healthy eating in schools in the Washington, DC area was successful in gaining 76 entries from 14 schools, and children displayed a high level of knowledge of which foods were healthy for them and a high level of creativity and artistic talent.
Service Learning That Saves Lives
Authors: Portis Mary
Published: July 2019

Blood drives make a perfect health education service learning project for high school and college students, especially college students majoring in health education. It is a true win-win project. Students learn about the gift of life and have a chance to practice valuable organizational, communication, problem-solving, marketing and evaluation skills. The community benefits from additional blood stores and expansion of the community blood donor base.
Senior And Junior Faculty Perspectives On A Tenure Process In Health Promotion And Education
Authors: Rojas-Guyler Liliana , Cottrell Randall R.
Published: July 2019

This paper reviews the concept of tenure and its importance in health education. It also illustrates the experiences and perspectives of a senior level tenured professor and a junior level non-tenured assistant professor, from a health education program at a Research I university. The goals of this paper include providing future or beginning junior faculty with: 1) perspectives on tenure and its importance within the health promotion profession, 2) helpful hints for obtaining tenure from the view of a senior tenured faculty member, 3) ways that senior faculty members can support junior faculty in obtaining tenure, and 4) key issues identified by a junior faculty member currently on the tenure track.
Best of Both Worlds
Authors: Kumpf Phyllis , Young-Talbot Lucille , Davenport Candice
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this article is to explore the diverse career paths of three health educators who started their health careers in the nursing profession and advanced their careers by pursuing a degree in health education. With the combination of nursing and the focus on health education to improve the overall health and well being of communities, these health educators have found satisfying and rewarding opportunities in multiple and various work settings.
Health Care in the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Authors: Murphy Daniel S.
Published: July 2019

Having spent five years imprisoned in Federal Medical Centers (FMC), I have substantive experience with the health care delivery system of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP). Intimately familiar with the symbolic quality of health care provided, I lived the rationing of health care practiced by FBOP medical personnel, and saw the organized denial of medical care to wards of the FBOP. Medical care within the FBOP is symbolic, with minimal expectation of improving prisoners' health. Discretionary medicine is top-down FBOP policy. The symbolic health care(less) provided by the FBOP is the focus of the present article.
Tennessee’s Youth in Juvenile Justice Facilities
Authors: Barnes Louise , Bennett Deborah , Bryson Charlotte , Diehl Sita , Hayes Trish , Heflinger Craig Anne , Ledbetter Liz , McCain Pam , O’Neal Linda , Orten Patti , Reed Nancy , Sheffield Adriane , Stafford Debrah , Wade Pat
Published: July 2019

In order to assess the prevalence of mental health and substance abuse among youth in one state’s juvenile justice facilities, a survey was conducted of 40 Tennessee facilities. A total of 1215 youth were being held on the “one day census” that was taken as part of the survey. The survey documented many mental health and substance abuse issues: 1) 53 percent of the youth in juvenile justice facilities were experiencing mental health problems; 2) 15 percent were taking some type of psychiatric medicine while in the juvenile justice facility; 3) 42 percent were known to have substance abuse problems; and 4) 30 percent had co-occurring mental health and substance use problems. Policy and program recommendations based on these findings are discussed.
Ounce of Prevention
Authors: Rees Keely S. , Thompson Sharon E.
Published: July 2019

Internships in the health profession, specifically in public and community health education and promotion, are a valuable opportunity for students to acquire new skills, as well as implement their recently acquired academic knowledge. There are generally three key players in the internship process: the faculty advisor or coordinator, the site supervisor, and the student intern. There are processes and procedures that can greatly help facilitate a positive experience for all three parties. Essential to this internship process are good organization skills, meticulous planning abilities, and clear communication channels. This article provides easy steps that all three individuals can benefit from during the planning and implementation phases of the internship experiences.
Computer Security
Authors: Schmalz Edward A.
Published: July 2019

Security has become a matter of utmost importance since the aftermath of September 11th, especially in the area of computer systems. There are many options that a health educator can do as an individual to help secure the computer system at their worksite and in their home. This article is a brief overview of some of the precautions that should be taken on a daily basis to protect your computer systems, files, data, and other pertinent information.
LEAP Works! Outcomes of a Family-Based Nutrition Education and Physical Activity Promotion Program
Authors: Monastra Michelle A. , Bordin Judith , Wolff Cindy B.
Published: July 2019

Overweight is an endemic public health concern for children, adolescents, and adults. Reducing the prevalence of childhood overweight is a national health objective and nine million U.S. children, currently classified as overweight, require effective nutrition education and physical activity promotion services. The intent of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a family-based nutrition education and physical activity promotion program, Lifelong Eating and Activity Patterns (LEAP), as an effective approach for the prevention and treatment of child overweight. The study design was an eight-week intervention and participant files were analyzed retrospectively to ascertain information for the study variables. The main outcome measures were changes in body mass index (BMI), percent body fat, fitness level, and eating and activity behaviors for child and parent participants. Qualitative data gathered from an exit survey for both children and parents were used to assess perceived benefits, value, and effectiveness of the program. Participants included 107 boys (n=48) and girls (n=59) ages 7-14, mean age 10.6 years, and their accompanying parents. The child participants were either “at risk for overweight” (3%) or “overweight” (97%). The results showed a significant decrease in BMI for both child and parent participants and percent body fat for child participants. There was a significant increase in reported fruit and vegetable consumption, regular physical activity, and in fitness parameters for both child and parent participants. The qualitative exit survey results indicated that the LEAP program resulted in significant improvements in knowledge, attitude, and behavior. In conclusion, this family-based nutrition education and physical activity promotion program was effective in decreasing BMI and body fat, increasing fitness level, and eliciting positive changes in eating and activity attitudes and behavior in both child and parent participants.
What Seniors Say About West Nile Virus
Authors: Bitto Adenike , Hakim Jacquelyn A. , Pula M. F.
Published: July 2019

Public health surveillance reports indicate that the recent rapid population increase among senior citizens is accompanied by a nationwide spread of West Nile virus (WNV), an emerging disease that poses a threat to the elderly. Information gathered from senior citizens in the County, showed that overall, 81.6% of seniors knew that WNV is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito; but only 63.2% knew that older adults have a higher risk of severe complications from WNV infection. A tailored health education outreach program, based on the health belief model and epidemiologic triad, was implemented to share about WNV infection prevention and control. This included the reduction of mosquito breeding and bites; improved use of personal protective measures for outdoor exposures at dusk and at night; and use of repellants. Because the threat of WNV is not over, it is important to keep seniors and other vulnerable populations involved in issues that affect their health, community, and environment
What do “Back-to-School" Computers Have in Common with Health Education and Health Protection?
Authors: Bitto Adenike
Published: July 2019

How to increase immunization levels in communities is a recurrent problem associated with missed opportunities. As communities gear-up for Back to School, health educators may encourage people to update their child, adolescent, and adult immunizations. Human herd immunity can protect communities from spread of infection, and an analogy is presented with “herd immunity for personal computers.” Both computer and biological viruses spread faster when a large portion of the population is unprotected. Just as individuals should receive immunization shots to protect self and families; computer systems can be protected against nasty computer code by using current anti-virus programs to limit the spread of viruses, worms, and Trojan horses from one computer to another. How much more would individuals rather receive timely shots that help to preserve health? An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Elementary After School Programs
Authors: Battista Jackie , Nigg Claudio R. , Chang Jo Ann , Yamashita Marisa , Chung Richard
Published: July 2019

Objective: To present project design and baseline characteristics of a project promoting life-long physical activity (PA) in an elementary after-school program. Methods: The project incorporates a two group design with delayed treatment control. PA and context observations and surveys (n=533; grades 4-6; attitude, enjoyment, intention, subjective norm, confidence, PA behavior, and fruit and vegetable consumption) were conducted. Results: Students spend almost 90 minutes standing, sitting and lying down and less than 17 minutes in moderate and vigorous PA during the after-school program. Students were strenuously active 3.89 days per week, moderately active 3.12 days per week, and mildly active 3.06 days per week, and watched television or played video games for 3.71 hours per day during leisure time. Attitudes, enjoyment, intention, and subjective norms differentiated students in different stages of PA. Discussion: There is an opportunity for PA promotion during after school, and stage specific interventions are indicated to facilitate PA.
Physical Activity and Nutrition Interventions and Physical Self-Image In Youth
Authors: Williams Rebecca , Nigg Claudio , Oda Mae
Published: July 2019

The importance of improving physical self-image and its related consequences in youth provided the rationale for this study. Based on the Exercise and Self-Esteem Model, the adapted Health Behavior and Self-Esteem Model provides an explanation of behavior (physical activity and nutrition) leading to selfimage. We found that physical activity and nutrition were related with self-image by gender and grades (4-12) during a school year. Cross-sectional pre- (n=263; 52.9% female) and post- (n=287; 51.5% female) intervention data revealed that: males generally belonged to more active groups; males were more satisfied with their physical body attributes than their female peers; and that 82% of the physical activity, nutrition, and self-image study variables remained stable across time. The maintaining of health behaviors mirroring the maintenance of physical self-image lends credence to this aspect of the adapted Health Behavior and Self Esteem Model. More rigorous testing of the full Model is warranted.
"Navigating Change." A Voyage to Connect Science and Culture with Health
Authors: Shehata Cherie , Anthony Na'alehu , Maskarinec Gregory G.
Published: July 2019

Hawai'i faces serious health problems, with average morbidity and mortality rates in key indicators often higher than their mainland counterparts. Much of this relates to poor dietary intake and inadequate physical activity. Many health initiatives have tried to address this issue. This paper examines a unique approach that integrates the health of the land and ecosystem with the health of the people who live in it. We discuss "Navigating Change," a program that brings together students, scientists and culture experts to address the health of the ecosystem, and demonstrate its relation to how we can live healthier lives. Health practitioners are encouraged to 1) understand the scope of the need; 2) increase and utilize resources; and 3) incorporate cultural healing in their practice.
Introducing Health Promotion Agenda-Setting for Health Education Practitioners
Authors: Kozel Charles T. , Kane William M. , Hatcher Michael T. , Hubbell Anne P. , Dearing James W. , Forster-Cox Sue , Thompson Sharon , Pérez Frank G. , Goodman Melanie
Published: July 2019

Health professionals must continuously address health promotion issues using the latest strategies and research. Currently in health care, too often an underdeveloped and under supported agenda prioritizes problems, issues, and solutions. Further, an ongoing competition exists among issues due to an undocumented agenda-setting process to gain the attention of media, public, and policy makers. Agendasetting is based on the belief that the media influence what we talk about, rather than controlling what we think, and how often an issue appears in the media influences the policy agenda (Dearing & Rogers, 1996). If an issue is “salient” and receives frequent or expansive coverage by media, audience members will talk more about that issue than one that is not as salient. A Health Promotion Agenda-Setting approach works to specify and prioritize problems and alternative solutions for increasing media exposure and setting agendas for “sustained” courses of action, (Kozel et al., 2003). The crucial link between agenda-setting and the process of establishing effective legislation, policy, and programs has been researched. However, many health practitioners do not understand what agenda setting is, nor how to apply agenda setting within the field of health education. Professional development in Health Promotion Agenda-Setting offers health education practitioners new knowledge, skills, methods, and opportunities to strengthen practices that influence the public health agenda and transform health promotion leadership.
Work of Health Educators in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Smith Lisa , McKenzie James F.
Published: July 2019

This study examined the task of health educators working in a clinical setting to better understand their roles. The study was designed as a descriptive, cross-sectional survey using a convenience sample of health educators who worked in clinical settings in Indiana and who had a college degree in health education. Forty health educators were contacted and 62% of the subjects participated in the survey. Results indicated most jobs were similar in nature and the health education curriculum studied helped them in the roles they were serving. However, many educators felt there were other content areas of study that would have been helpful to prepare them for working in the clinical setting. A majority of the respondents reported that having Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) certification was helpful and necessary in their positions.
Effects of Glycemic Load and Exercise on Overweight/Obesity in College Students
Authors: Polacek Georgia N. L. Johnston , DeSola Bill
Published: July 2019

We sought to assess the effect of glycemic load consumption and exercise in healthy college students. Participants (N=10) were screened on physiological measures then randomly assigned to experimental and control groups. Both groups participated in the walking program. Those in the experimental group were given the ADA diet exchange list modified to low glycemic load. At the end of 12 weeks, participants were reassessed. Members of the experimental group saw significant changes in total cholesterol and blood glucose. Changes in body mass index and waist circumference were not significant but some changes were noted. The glycemic load does have a positive effect on blood chemistries and physiological measures.
Ideology Versus Reality in the Lunchroom
Authors: McLaren Karla , Waters Tony
Published: July 2019

American children are becoming increasingly overweight and inactive; consequently, the school lunch room is fast becoming an ideological battle ground. Legislators, medical professionals, school districts, parents, and the media are focusing intense scrutiny on school nutrition programs, and sweeping changes to these programs are federally mandated to occur before July, 2006. However, equal scrutiny has not been focused on the actual operations, logistics, or requirements of these programs. Through interviews, on-site visits, and participant observations, this eight week study focuses on current (April through June 2005) conditions in three economically disparate public school nutrition programs in one California county. This study asks if school nutrition programs can implement the numerous changes required under new cultural (informal) and upcoming federal (formal) mandates. The conclusion in this instance is that no, public schools are under too much existent financial, physical plant-related, and personnel-related strain to be able to easily or effectively retool their nutrition programs to match the burgeoning ideology. This study provides recommendations and considerations for schools, parents, and legislators – not from an ideological elevation, but from the actual locations within which our children are being fed.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Authors: Turner Karen Walker
Published: July 2019

Educators in two school districts were surveyed on their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived competence in educating students with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). Data from 114 surveys were analyzed using quantitative and qualitative methods. Spearman rank order correlation coefficients revealed statistically significant positive correlations between attitude and knowledge, perceived competence and knowledge, and perceived competence and attitude. Friedman's ANOVA indicated differences between teaching experience and attitude, a relationship between knowledge and type of teacher training, and differences in perceived competence by teacher location and grade level of teaching. Qualitative results revealed themes of knowledge and empathy in response to questions regarding support and strengths in educating students with FAS. Recommendations for educators in northwest Florida were discussed as well as implications of the research for education.
Who is Teaching (or Not Teaching) Mexican Youth in Southeast Idaho About Safer Sex Practices?
Authors: Davis Peter C. , Rankin Linda L.
Published: July 2019

Because of the high rate of HIV/AIDS in the Hispanic community, the original purpose of this qualitative study (n=20) was to investigate the explanatory models of HIV and AIDS in Mexican migrant women in southeast Idaho. However, a reoccurring theme emerged that pointed toward the possibility of a breakdown in communication between the Mexican migrant families and the education system regarding sex education. Eighty percent of the women interviewed believed that their children were receiving education about condoms and safer sex practices in the school, while in reality the students were only receiving abstinence-based sex education. Since the women believed that their children were being educated in school, there was no dialogue in the family unit about safer sex practices. Because of the high rate of HIV/AIDS and teen pregnancy in the Hispanic community in the United States, it is important to examine this lack of education as a possible catalyst to these problems.
Evaluation of African American Adolescent Health Status With Gender Comparison
Authors: Anderson Joy L.
Published: July 2019

The goals of Healthy People 2010 are to increase the quality of life and life expectancy, and eliminate health disparities. There is no clear picture, however, if these goals are being addressed by African American adolescents. This study was conducted to evaluate health status of African American adolescents aged 13-19 in Florida’s Big Bend Region. Healthy People 2010 objectives were consulted for the evaluation. Responses from a convenience sample of 35 participants (63% female, 34% male) who completed a survey comprised of questions based on Likert scale are summarized here. The results show that the African American adolescents are engaging in some physical activity; however, only about half of them reported maintaining a healthy body weight. The majority of the adolescents reported avoiding smoking, but fewer adolescents reported avoiding drinking alcohol. Only a small percentage of the adolescents reported that their friends carried a gun or knife to school within the last 30 days; the percentage increased when the adolescents were asked if their friends got into a fist fight within the last 30 days. The adolescents sampled in this study have only achieved the Healthy People 2010 objectives in one of the health concern areas examined herein. It is also important to note that there are substantial gender-based disparities. In order to meet all Healthy People 2010 objectives, health education and promotion must be increased. Future research should explore different aspects of health status of adolescents in general, and further examine gender disparities and contributing factors.
Reasons Youth of Color Give for Not Accessing Primary Health Care
Authors: Woodruff Ruby Jean Vasser , Zimmerli William H. , Duncan David F.
Published: July 2019

Survey research was conducted on patients seen at Grady Teen Clinic in Atlanta, Georgia to investigate the reasons this population, predominantly composed of youth of color, gives for not accessing primary health care. Subjects for the study were males and females aged 13-19 who attended the clinic as patients during the year 2004. Data was collected from forms contained in the teens’ medical records. A majority (53%) of the subjects (n=5210) answered that the cost of medical care was their main reason for not accessing primary health care (53%), followed by lack of health insurance (44%), fear of parents learning about their visit (42%) and not knowing where to access health care (29.4%). Responses regarding cultural and language barriers (7.3%), difficulty getting or keeping appointments (9.1%) and waiting time (3.5%) were the least frequent answers. A chi square analysis revealed males and females differed significantly with respect to reasons for not accessing health care.
Evaluation of the Relationship between AcademicPerformance and Physical Fitness Measures in California Schools
Authors: Singh Sangeeta , McMahan Shari
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between academic achievement and physical fitness in California schools. Data from the academic year 2004-2005 Fitnessgram were compared to reading, mathematics and science scores on the California Standards test (CST) of 253 elementary schools in the Orange County School District. Physical education teachers from the 10 lowest scoring and 10 highest scoring schools were interviewed regarding content of the physical education classes in their school. Simple correlation coefficients revealed a positive linear relationship between academic scores and physical fitness scores. The interview with the teachers revealed that most of the 10 lowest scoring schools did not have a designated physical education teacher. All of the 10 highest scoring schools had designated physical education teachers and followed the physical education guidelines recommended by the California Education Board.