bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Communities Creating Healthy Environments to Combat Obesity
Authors: González Erualdo Romero , Villanueva Sandra , Grills Cheryl N.
Published: July 2019

While there is growing faith in community organizing to influence policy as a way to improve the built environment and increase food or recreational equity, relatively little research is available examining the successes and challenges of community organizing in Latino communities attempting to reduce obesity. Using process and outcome evaluation data, we present preliminary findings from a study of two community-based organizations that are making efforts to increase access to physical activity and access to healthy foods in predominantly Latino areas. The organizations are part of Communities Creating Healthy Environments (CCHE), a national initiative of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) to prevent childhood obesity. Both community-based organizations were able to achieve redistribution of public resources to advance their CCHE objectives. We discuss the study’s implications, including the need for public policy research around obesity that examines community organizing as an intervention.
Creating Playgrounds, Where Playgrounds Do Not Exist
Authors: Espinoza Alejandro , McMahan Shari , Naffzinger Todd , Wiersma Lenny D.
Published: July 2019

Recent emphasis has been placed on the effect the built environment has on physical activity levels of children. Children living in poorly planned or urban neighborhoods (areas with limited room or green space for play, lack of sidewalks and streets that do not connect) have less access to physical activity opportunities. The purpose of this article is to describe a shared venture between a public university, nonprofit organization and faith based organization to increase physical activity among children living in a city with limited open space. A mobile physical activity unit (MPAU), which consisted of a renovated passenger bus with playground equipment, was developed and utilized with the intent of providing safe, age-appropriate and supervised activities and games in a parking lot. Hence, children living nearby had access to a “playground” that was non-existent in their neighborhood. The MPAU was made available to children twice per week for 12 weeks. Attendance rates were high, and parents reported positive feedback. The findings suggest that in the absence of joint-use agreements for access to playgrounds after school hours, innovations such as the MPAU may be effective alternatives to increase children’s physical activity levels.
Using the Multi-Attribute Utility Model to Better Understand Fruit and Vegetable Intake among College Students
Authors: Hanlon Anna Stiles , Weiss Jie Wu , McMahan Shari , Chen Emily
Published: July 2019

This study examined the association between parameters of the decision-making processes that are described in the Multi-Attribute Utility (MAU) model and actual food choices (fruit and vegetable consumption) among undergraduate students. Four hundred and six undergraduates from a large, public university in Southern California completed a pencil-and-paper questionnaire for the parameters of MAU, which consist of the perceived value, perceived likelihood, and momentary salience for each anticipated consequence of eating a healthy diet. Fruit and vegetable intake was collected daily using an online food intake log. Linear regression analysis revealed that MAU total scores were a significant predictor of fruit plus vegetable consumption (p = .000). T-test results indicated that high fruit plus vegetable eaters and low fruit plus vegetable eaters were significantly different from each other on individual parameter scores of the MAU model (range, p = .032 to p = .000). Conclusions: This study suggest that the MAU model may predict eating behaviors and provides support for further investigation; the MAU framework may help identify the factors that have greatest influence college students’ nutrition decision making processes, and can aid in the development of interventions that address target consequences that have high utility scores in the target population.
Family and Personal Predictors of Early Adolescent Eating Patterns
Authors: Brown Stephen L. , Teufel James , Gautam Yuba R. , Norrick Christie , Birch David
Published: July 2019

Many early adolescents report consuming less than the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and up to one-third report skipping breakfast. Recent research suggests that children consider parents to be the gatekeepers of food choices, and that parents are important role models for children’s eating behaviors. This study examined perceived control over food choices, familial communication regarding healthy eating, and preferred sources of information about healthy eating in relation to eating behaviors. Data were obtained from 959 early adolescents attending health programs in the Midwest. Early adolescents who reported more frequent family discussions were more likely to report eating two or more vegetables per day (AOR=1.4, p
California’s Graduated Driver Licensing Ten Years Later
Authors: Males Mike A.
Published: July 2019

California’s 1998 Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) law imposed complex restrictions, enhanced supervision, and delayed licensure on new drivers under age 18. While initial researchers credited GDL with reducing fatalities among 16-year-olds, later research found larger fatality increases among the 18- and 19 age group of GDL “graduates.” This study uses Center for Health Statistics and Fatality Analysis Reporting System traffic data from 1996-2008 to conduct time-series analyses of the longer-term effects of California’s GDL law on motor vehicle fatalities and fatal crashes among the 16-25 age group. The control series consisted of Californians in the 27-39 age group during the same time period who reached age 16 before GDL took effect. The analysis found that from 1996-2008, the 16-25 age group subjected to GDL suffered significant net increases of 5% in drivers’ fatal crash involvements and 7% in traffic fatalities compared to the control group not exposed to GDL. Declines in fatalities and fatal crashes among the 16-17 year old age group were more than offset by larger increases in fatalities and fatal crashes among ages 18-25. For the 16-25 age group as a whole, California’s GDL was associated with approximately 60 more fatal crashes and fatalities per year. These results replicate and extend the negative findings regarding GDL. They suggest that lawmakers now should consider repealing or substantially modifying California’s GDL in the direction of a more flexible, professional licensing system.
Physical Accessibility and Health Care Use for Women with Physical Disabilities
Authors: Sweeney Tracy , Suzuki Rie
Published: July 2019

Cancer burden lies heavily on women with physical disabilities (WPD) because WPD are much less likely to receive preventive care. This disparity of use of cancer screening is directly linked to the inaccessibility of health care clinics, which often arises from obstacles in the physical environment. The purpose of study was to gain information regarding physical accessibility of a health care clinic for WPD. The study was set up as a two-part case study of a single outpatient health care clinic. The first part of the study utilized two checklists which were used to manually measure the accessibility of the clinic by a trained research assistant. These checklists included the Outpatient Health Care Usability Profile and the Kentucky Cabinet Survey. The clinic was found to be usable for WPD in all areas except parking, signage, controls, telephones, counters, and exam rooms. The second part of the study included interviews of two WPD who were the patients at the measured clinic to gain perspective on personally experienced barriers within the clinic. They identified the use human resources as means to overcome obstacles in the clinic. Implications for this study include the removal of barriers found to impede accessibility in the clinic and training of staff to assist WPD with transfers.
Motivational Signs, Artwork, and Stair Use in a University Building
Authors: Ferrara Cynthia M. , Murphy Deirdra
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of two interventions, motivational signs and artwork, on stair use in a campus building. Methods: A longitudinal intervention study with no control group was designed to evaluate the effects of motivational signs and art murals on stair use in a six-story building. Sensors were installed in stairwells to monitor stair use. After a three week baseline period, two intervention periods (motivational signs and art murals, both three weeks in length) were utilized to encourage stair use. Weekly values for stair trips/day were calculated and expressed relative to estimated campus student enrollment and faculty and staff with offices in the building (means+SEM). Values were compared using ANOVA and post-hoc tests (p
Examination of a Peer-Led, Non-Diet Nutrition and Exercise Adherence Pilot Program on a College Campus
Authors: Keeler Linda A. , Clifford Dawn E. , Buck August , Kowalski Petra , Morris Michelle N.
Published: July 2019

A non-equivalent control group design was utilized to investigate the effect of a non-diet, peer-led, tailored nutrition and exercise adherence intervention (FitU) on exercise stages of change, intuitive eating, and barriers to healthy eating and exercise in college females. Female students (n=17) who enrolled in the 8-10 week program served as the intervention group and general education students who did not receive an intervention served as the control group (n=16). Surveys were administered pre and post intervention over two consecutive semesters. Utilizing ANCOVA analyses, reported barriers to eating healthy decreased (p=.008) and one intuitive eating subscale, eating for physical rather than emotional reasons improved significantly (p=.01) in the intervention group compared to control from pre to post. Further, 65% of the intervention group reported an improvement in exercise stage of change and none relapsed compared with only 20% improvement and 40% relapse in the control group from pre to postintervention. The majority of the intervention participants also reported improved dietary (82.4%) and exercise (76.5%) patterns/thoughts. Peer-led and individually tailored, non-diet nutrition and exercise interventions may effectively promote healthy behaviors among college females.
Perspectives on Transitioning Uninsured Persons from an Emergency Department to Federally Qualified Health Centers in East Baltimore
Authors: Lapedis Jeremy B. , Layer Erica H. , Houston Kiely T. , Levy Stephanie A. , West Meredith , Surkan Pamela J.
Published: July 2019

Many people in the United States rely on the emergency department (ED) for their usual source of primary care. Linking these ED users to a source of longitudinal primary care could provide significant health benefits. To assess an intervention attempting to connect ED users to federally qualified health cents (FQHCs), we conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with volunteers, health facility providers, and a patient and a focus group with program volunteers. All sessions were digitally recorded, transcribed and analyzed to develop emergent themes highlighting the barriers and facilitating factors that affect the process of connecting patients to primary care. Themes included that 1) the ED is the preferred source of primary care over FQHCs, 2) there are limited links between EDs and FQHCs and 3) the evaluated intervention acts through and depends on patients’ prioritization of health and access to resources. Our findings suggest that, in addition to addressing individual needs, social services programs are well positioned to help increase communication between providers at FQHCs and EDs about both the services available to patients and patients’ medical care histories.
Evaluation of a Promotora-led Intervention on Colorectal Cancer among Hispanics
Authors: Rao Satya P. , Moralez Ernesto , Livaudais-Toman Jennifer , Lozano Valerie , Thompson Beti
Published: July 2019

We implemented a home-based group educational intervention in the form of home health parties (HHPs) among Hispanic men and women in the Lower Yakima Valley of Washington State led by trained bilingual promotoras. Baseline and follow-up responses to questions among participants were compared and related to communications about colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. Participants’ perceptions of the CRC related educational information presented were documented as measures of effectiveness of the HHPs, as well as, possible indicators of their intentions to engage in timely CRC screenings. The group based educational sessions resulted in positive participants’ perceptions about the benefits of the CRC related information and improved communications about CRC screening. Results suggest the benefits of utilizing promotoras’ cultural knowledge and awareness to present content about cancers such as CRC in ways that are easily understandable to Hispanic participants that may result in improved communications and action about cancer screenings.
Promoting Weight Loss Before Pregnancy
Authors: Phelan Suzanne , Hagobian Todd , Brannen Anna , Stewart Ana , Schmid Brianna , Cedars Leonard
Published: July 2019

Pre-pregnancy obesity is a well-established risk factor for several adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, including gestational diabetes, hypertension, cesarean sections, and fetal macrosomia. Weight loss before pregnancy could help prevent such complications, but the feasibility of such an approach remains unknown. The current study examined the feasibility of a 3-month pre-pregnancy behavioral weight loss program in 12 overweight/obese women planning pregnancy. The 3 month program resulted in an average 5.4 ± 3.0 kg weight loss and significant improvements in self-monitoring, physical activity, eating and exercise self-efficacy, and healthy eating (p < 0.04). By the end of the 9 month follow-up, half of sample (n = 6) had conceived. Women reported significant increases in weekly or more frequent selfweighing (p < 0.0001), counting calories (p < 0.001), consuming fruit and vegetables (p = 0.007), and cutting out fat (p = 0.0001) and junk foods (p = 0.002). A lifestyle modification program to promote weight loss before pregnancy promoted clinically significant weight loss and appeared feasible.
Comparison of Skin Cancer Knowledge, Attitude, and Protective Behavior in African American Students in East and West Coasts
Authors: Meh Catherine , Gill Jasmeet , Kim Danny H.
Published: July 2019

Purpose and Background: African Americans, in comparison to other ethnic groups, are often diagnosed with melanoma at advanced stages, resulting in low survival rates. One of the strongest risk factors for all types of skin cancer is exposure to UV radiation from the sun. UV ray intensity is associated with latitude; lower latitudes have stronger UV rays than higher latitudes. This study examines and compares the knowledge, attitude, and protective behavior toward skin cancer among United States African American college students who live in two different latitudes, Maryland and southern California. Methods: We surveyed 360 African American students from two major universities in southern California and Maryland. Students were asked to fill out questionnaires that assessed their knowledge, attitude, and protective behavior regarding sun exposure. Results: More African American students from Maryland knew the direct link between UV/sun radiation exposure and the occurrence of skin cancer (p = 0.02), while those from California were significantly more knowledgeable about skin cancer risk factors such as sunbathing without sunscreen (p ? 0.001). Although students from Maryland were more concerned that exposure to the sun may give them skin cancer (p = 0.003) and more worried about the possibility of skin cancer (p < 0.001), they were less likely to engage in sun protection behaviors such as using sunscreen (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Based on this study, efforts to increase sun protective behaviors through education regarding skin cancer risk factors in Maryland are warranted.
A-Z of Health Promotion
Authors: Woodall James
Published: July 2019

With its accessibility, format and comprehensive coverage of key concepts, the A-Z of Health Promotion by Glenn Laverack makes a unique contribution to the market. Outlining 72 key concepts and 140 other terms, the book is highly recommended for those new to, or already practicing, health promotion as well as students at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Moreover, the international ‘flavour’ of case studies and examples means that it has relevance for a global audience. The book’s format allows for easy navigation and for readers to move from concept-to-concept in an order that best suits their needs. Given the authors’ considerable expertise, it is unsurprising that the entries have an empowerment theme with less focus on disease or lifestyle/behavioural approaches in health promotion programmes. In summary, the book makes a refreshing contribution and is an invaluable sourcebook that effectively captures and presents complex ideas in health promotion.
Cyber Bullying Among Female College Students
Authors: Brewer Briana , Cave Amelia , Massey Anne , Vurdelja Anne , Freeman Jeanne
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Cyber bullying is often assumed to only occur in grades K-12, yet reports of such behaviors on college campuses and in the workplace are increasing. The U.S. Federal Government has recently called for policy development regarding cyber bullying to occur in higher education. This study explored perceptions of frequency and severity of cyber bullying among college students. Consequences of cyber bullying and the need for resources on college campuses were also explored. Methods: In 2011, a total of 18 undergraduate women participated in three focus groups, each lasting approximately 75 minutes. Results: Emergent themes revealed participants do not consider cyber bullying to be a significant issue currently, but likely will increase in prevalence among the college population. Many participants were familiar with the cyber bullying term but were unaware of its definition, nor could they provide examples. Further, the majority of participants were unaware of resources for victims of cyber bullying. Implications: Findings from this study reveal the need for educational programs geared toward college students about the meaning and consequences of cyber bullying. Further, resources for victims of cyber bullying should be made available on college campuses.
Using E-Mail Health Interventions and Transtheoretical Model to Promote Wellness
Authors: Anenson, Jr. Larry W. , Brunt Ardith , Terbizan Donna , Christensen Bryan
Published: July 2019

Purpose: The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to determine the effectiveness of one weekly e-mail health (e-health) message in assisting individuals meet their self-identified health goals. Methods: Employees (N=31) from a midwestern city were recruited at a Benefits Fair health booth and divided into two groups based on their desire to receive additional health information. The participants in each group were then randomly assigned to receive basic or detailed e-health messages that were developed using the constructs of the Transtheoretical Model. Participants self-identified a personal wellness goal and how soon they planned to start working toward accomplishing this goal. For 38 weeks, the basic group received weekly e-health messages that contained basic information related to one of the World Health Organization’s seven dimensions of wellness while the detailed group received the basic message plus additional games, webpage links and more extensive information. Participant’s progress along the change continuum and goal completion was assessed 38 weeks later with a Post-Wellness Survey. Results: Participants exhibited positive movement on the behavior change continuum with many reaching their goals, regardless of the type of e-health message received. Conclusion: E-health messages can be a practical, cost-effective way to assist employees in making healthy behavioral changes and meeting their personal health goals.
Parent and Friend Influences on the Multiple Health Behaviors of Adolescents in Hawai`i
Authors: Geller Karly S. , Alvarez Antonia R. , Nigg Claudio R. , Oasay Aaron , Timbobolan Jerson
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: The prevalence of youth obesity has increased dramatically in the United States, becoming a severe concern in Hawai`i and disproportionally impacting Filipino youth. The main study objective was to describe the influence of parents and friends on adolescents’ dietary, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors. Methods: We collected quantitative and qualitative data from two classrooms in Hawai`i, from ethnic minority adolescents (N=42; 11th and 12th graders) and their parents (N=31). Participating adolescents were 86% female with a mean age of 16.5 + .6 years, and their parents were 77% female with a mean age of 45.9 + 6.9 years. The majority of participants described themselves as Filipino American. Self-report data were collected via adolescent surveys and follow-up group discussion, as well as individual adolescent-led parent interviews. Quantitative data were descriptive, and qualitative data were conceptualized into underlying themes based on the targeted health behavior and the source of influence (parents and friends). Results: The majority of students reported parents as the dominant influence on their dietary and sedentary behaviors; however, friends were reported as the principal influence on adolescents’ physical activity levels. Parents’ reported a strong dietary influence via home availability, but minimal influence on adolescents’ physical activity. Conclusion: Home food availability and reduced television time are prime targets for family-based interventions among ethnic minority Hawai`ian populations.
Empieza con Fuerza Tu Día (Kick Start Your Day)
Authors: Batista Adriana , Mouttapa Michele , Wallace Sharonda , McMahan Shari
Published: July 2019

The Latino population in the United States is increasing, and has high rates of overweight and obesity. Hence, innovative health education materials are needed to promote obesity prevention efforts in this population. This article discusses the conceptualization and contents of Empieza con Fuerza Tu Día (Kick Start Your Day), a comic book written in Spanish, which promotes healthy eating habits. Key constructs of the health belief model (HBM) were included in various storylines depicted in the comic book. Twenty Latina health educators, promotoras, read the comic book and participated in one of two focus group interviews. Their feedback indicated that with some modifications, the comic book would be appropriate for Latino families. Hence, a health belief model comic book approach towards obesity prevention for Latino families is feasible.
Consumer Attitudes and Behaviors Regarding Ethnic Produce at Farmers’ Markets
Authors: Goto Keiko , Whitten Jennifer , Giovanni Maria , Wolff Cindy
Published: July 2019

Background and Objective: Past research indicates that exposure to ethnic produce may be positively associated with fruit and vegetable consumption and negatively associated with fast food consumption. The objective of this research was to examine attitudes and behaviors regarding ethnic produce among farmers’ market consumers in rural northern California. Methods: A total of 502 farmers’ market attendees completed a survey, which examined the demographic characteristics of the consumers, their attitudes toward ethnic produce at farmers’ markets, and their familiarity and preferences for a variety of food products and cuisines. Results: Most participants had positive attitudes toward products presented on the survey. However, less than half of the study participants recognized at least 11 of the 22 ethnic produce items available at area farmers' markets. Ethnic minorities, females, and older participants were more likely to have tried ethnic produce items. Women had more positive attitudes toward ethnic produce. Conclusion: These findings indicate the importance of identifying strategies tailored to specific groups of people to promote the consumption of ethnic fruits and vegetables, which may be associated with lower rates of obesity and diet-related chronic diseases.
Factors Correlating Perceptions of HPV and Vaccine Uptake among High School Students
Authors: Hosseini Parastou Sadat Khalessi , Munoz Karen , Lakon Cynthia M. , Brown Brandon
Published: July 2019

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is arguably the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection, and has been linked to a variety of health complications including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and anogenital warts. The HPV vaccine can prevent these health complications, but few studies have investigated the specific factors that impact HPV vaccine uptake. Methods: Two hundred seventy-five male and female high school students were surveyed in an ethnically diverse school district in southern California regarding HPV vaccine uptake and perceptions. Results: Less than one third of students reported their physician had discussed HPV vaccine with them, and fewer still for males (p
Differences between Undergraduate and Graduate Students in Stress and Coping Strategies
Authors: Ickes Melinda J. , Brown Joanne , Reeves Brandy , Zephyr Pierre Martin D.
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Stress among college students, and the related health and academic consequences, remains an important issue for college health professionals. Yet, less is known about the reported coping strategies among both undergraduate and graduate students. Purpose: This crosssectional study examined differences between undergraduate and graduate college students in stress levels and coping behaviors. Methods: An online health behavior survey was administered to a random sample of 1,139 college students enrolled in 2011. Chi-square test of independence examined demographic differences, stress levels and coping strategies. Classification and Regression Tree analysis further explored coping strategies which differentiated groups. Results: Participants were primarily white (87.2%), graduate students (58.5%), and female (59.8%). Almost 80% reported moderate, much or great deal of stress, with no significant differences between undergraduate and graduate students. Sleep (69.6%), exercise (66.1%), and food (56.8%) were the most common coping strategies, regardless of academic classification. Social support as a coping strategy was the most important variable explaining differences between undergraduate and graduate students. Conclusion: Undergraduate and graduate college students cope with stress in a similar manner. However, social support was more likely among graduate students and may be an important strategy for future college health programming.
Reservations to Participate in Biospecimen Research among Pacific Islanders
Authors: Kwan Patchareeya , Briand Greta , Lee Cevadne , Lepule Jonathan , Llave Karen , Pang Ka’ala , Sabado Melanie , Santos Lola , Tanjasiri Sora , Tui’one Vanessa , Schmidt-Vaivao Dorothy , Palmer Paula
Published: July 2019

Background and Significance: Despite high rates of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, Pacific Islanders (PIs) are underrepresented in clinical and genetic studies designed to identify the physiological causes of poor health outcomes. There are limited genetic data and biospecimen samples from PIs under study. This paper described why PIs have reservations about donating their biospecimen samples for research. Methods: Data were drawn from a pilot study designed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs surrounding biospecimen research among PIs in southern California. Utilizing a community-based participatory research approach, community and academic partners collected quantitative and qualitative data from a total of 60 PI adults with a mean age of 61 years (SD 13 years). Results: “Fear”, “God or Spirituality” and “Lack of Information or Knowledge” were the most cited reasons for not participating in biospecimen research. Respondents younger than age 65 years expressed more concerns about donating their biospecimen samples than those older than age 65 years (p
HBV Testing and Vaccinations among Asian and Pacific Islander Patients
Authors: Domingo Joseph R. , Yoo Grace J. , Henne Jeff , Shiau Rita , Sanchez Melissa A.
Published: July 2019

Background and Significance: One in 12 Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are infected with hepatitis B (HBV). APIs represent one-third of the population in San Francisco. San Francisco Hep B Free (SFHBF), a citywide collaboration, works to educate physicians and the community on the importance of hepatitis B among APIs through increasing awareness, education and the availability of screening and vaccinations. The purpose of this paper was to qualitatively assess the perceived impact of SFHBF on the awareness and attitudes of physicians regarding screening and vaccination of APIs. Methods: Twenty physicians (n=20) participated in key informant interviews about HBV awareness and involvement with SFHBF. The questions focused on physician attitudes and practice towards HBV screening, vaccination and follow-up care, communication with patients about HBV, and awareness and effectiveness of the SFHBF outreach efforts. Results: Findings highlighted SFHBF’s impact on physicians’ sensitivity and awareness. Overall, physicians were increasing their HBV screening and vaccination rates among their API patients. Physicians noted the need for continual support to prioritize HBV screening and vaccination among their API patients. Conclusion: The findings of this study are important for understanding the impact of public health campaigns on physician attitudes and practices regarding HBV education, screening, and vaccinations among their API patients.
Stress and Coping among College Students in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Thomas Tykeysha , Hodge Felicia , Kotkin-Jaszi Suzanne
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Stress is a common complaint among college students; however, stress is understudied specifically among Hispanics outside of the United States. A cross-sectional study investigating the stress-coping approaches utilized by Dominican college students living in the Dominican Republic (DR) is reported. Methods: Three-hundred three students, 27% male and 73% female, attending a private DR college completed a self-administered survey that inquired about their stress-coping approaches. Results: Older students in good academic standing were five times more likely to engage in exercise in response to stress (p= .006). Smoking cigarettes was significantly higher among White male students (p= .018). Students most often reported listening to music, using more than one stress-coping approach, or exercising in response to stress. Conclusion: This study identified stresscoping approaches utilized by college students attending a private university in the DR. Adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies were described. These findings differ from findings reported in studies conducted among other Hispanic college student populations that more often reported social support as a more commonly-used stress-coping approach.
Motivation for Gluten-Free Diet Adherence among Adults with and without a Clinically Diagnosed Gluten-Related Illness
Authors: Pember Sarah E. , Rush Sarah E.
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Historically used as the sole treatment for celiac disease, there has been a substantial rise in popularity of the gluten-free diet (GFD) as both a diet plan and alternative form of medicine in the United States (US). Approximately 1% of the US population suffers from celiac disease, but various reports show 30% to 80% of adults have an interest in, or are currently adhering to, a GFD. This study aimed to understand this disproportion by exploring GFD adherence motivations, in addition to medical diagnoses, within a population of gluten-free followers. Methods. An anonymous, internetbased survey was administered to assess GFD motivations and adherence within the general population (n=99). Results. Of those currently following or who had previously followed a GFD, medical diagnosis was reported by only 28.6% as motivation for GFD adherence, with 60.7% reporting general health motivations, 25.0% reporting weight loss motivations, and 21.4% reporting curiosity. Conclusion. This study supports previous research suggesting that adherence to a GFD may occur for reasons outside of a medical diagnosis. Public health educators should inform individuals about risks and misconceptions associated with GFDs when implementing healthy eating programs for adults without medically diagnosed digestive conditions.
Pilot Study Examining Pregnancy-specific Equations to Estimate Percent Body Fat in an Overweight/obese Pregnant Hispanic Population
Authors: Reisenberg Amy , Mauldin Kasuen , Sawrey-Kubicek Lisa , Lesser Mary N. R. , King Janet
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Over half of women entering pregnancy are overweight or obese, increasing metabolic risk. This pilot study investigated whether established equations for estimating maternal percent body fat using anthropometry are accurate for Hispanic, overweight or obese pregnant women. Methods: The Siri technique of calculating percent body fat from direct measurements of body density and total body water was the gold-standard. Other pregnancy-specific equations were also examined. The study population included 15 normoglycemic, pregnant Hispanic women in their third trimester (33.2±1.9 gestational week) with a pre-pregnancy body mass index ≥25 to
Reflections Regarding the Social Ecological Model to Address Obesity in Southern California Youth
Authors: Lemus Brittany A. , Mercado Faviola , Bryars Tracy , Mouttapa Michele , Conkey Tracy , Robertson Trina
Published: July 2019

Childhood overweight and obesity has been a significant public health concern in the United States for decades. School-based obesity prevention programs have been one strategy to address this issue. This article describes the implementation of a knowledge-based, healthy eating intervention delivered to 4th and 5th graders in a southern California school district. Trained graduate students implemented a nutrition education curriculum, consisting of three monthly lessons that would eventually be utilized and sustained by the schools’ Physical Education (PE) teachers in the following school year. As such, the intervention drew upon the Social Ecological Model (SEM) to describe how nutrition education could be implemented in a sustainable way to future generations of youth. Students were assessed on their knowledge and dietary behaviors at pre-test and after the final lesson. Students’ overall nutritional knowledge significantly increased from pre-test to post-test; however their self-reported eating behaviors (e.g., low fruit and vegetable consumption, and high consumption of chips, soda, and sweets) largely remained the same. Although the findings of this study were largely non-significant, we conclude that future interventions, which creatively address different levels of the target population’s environment, may have promise if they are sufficiently dosed.
Perceptions of Reproductive Rights among Young Adults with Disabilities
Authors: Hops Emily , Linton Kristen F. , Mercado Heidi
Published: July 2019

Background: The perception that people with disabilities are asexual and lack reproductive rights has existed in the United States since the early 1900s. In the early 1900s in the U.S., approximately 42,000 institutionalized people with disabilities were lawfully sexually sterilized as a result of the Eugenics Movement. The state of California was responsible for one-third of all sterilizations during the Movement. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the perceptions of reproductive rights among young adults with disabilities. Methods: Purposive and snowball sampling was used. Twelve semi-structured interviews with eight young adults with various mental health, physical, intellectual/developmental, and learning disabilities were conducted. Results: Participants reported that their ability to have sex and their reproductive rights were commonly questioned by peers and professionals. Some internalized asexual stereotypes and questioned whether they should reproduce due to the potential that they might pass on a disability or burden their children with their own disability. Others confidently reported their desire to bear their own children. Conclusion: The asexuality stereotype of people with disabilities is pervasive and continues to be present in society today. It is important that professionals reflect on their own biases toward the reproductive rights of people with disabilities.
College Health Students’ Knowledge and Perceptions of Exercise Benefits and Dysfunctional Exercise
Authors: Li Ying , Keeler Linda A. , Jetter Megan Julia
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: A high percentage of people fail to meet the federal Physical Activity Guidelines while some adults develop dysfunctional exercise. The applications of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) in the field of physical activity suggest that how people are motivated to exercise can lead to different outcomes, such as dysfunctional exercise. Adequate training for health promotion professionals can ensure their competency in successfully promoting healthy exercise. This study assessed the knowledge and perceptions regarding exercise benefits and dysfunctional exercise among Kinesiology and Community Health students—the future health professionals. Methods: A crosssectional study was conducted in a convenience sample of 183 participants from a public university in the northwest region. Results: Both Kinesiology and Community Health majors demonstrated a low level of knowledge regarding dysfunctional exercise, and were inclined to cite controlled rather than autonomous benefits for exercise engagement. Conclusion: Program curriculum changes, such as the coverage of dysfunctional exercise and Self-Determination Theory, should be considered to address the issue.
Stress and Coping among College Students in the Dominican Republic
Authors: Thomas Tykeysha , Hodge Felicia , Kotkin-Jaszi Suzanne , Mencía-Ripley Aída
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Stress is a common complaint among college students; however, stress is understudied specifically among Hispanics outside of the United States. A cross-sectional study investigating the stress-coping approaches utilized by Dominican college students living in the Dominican Republic (DR) is reported. Methods: Three-hundred three students, 27% male and 73% female, attending a private DR college completed a self-administered survey that inquired about their stress-coping approaches. Results: Older students in good academic standing were five times more likely to engage in exercise in response to stress (p= .006). Smoking cigarettes was significantly higher among White male students (p= .018). Students most often reported listening to music, using more than one stress-coping approach, or exercising in response to stress. Conclusion: This study identified stresscoping approaches utilized by college students attending a private university in the DR. Adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies were described. These findings differ from findings reported in studies conducted among other Hispanic college student populations that more often reported social support as a more commonly-used stress-coping approach.
Association between Caffeine Consumption and Depression in NHANES 2009-2010
Authors: Pogoda Janice M. , Patricio Galilea , McEligot Archana J.
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose: Caffeine is ubiquitous in foods, supplements, and medications and has been hypothesized to be associated with several health-related outcomes, including mental health disorders such as anxiety. We explored a possible relationship between caffeine consumption and depression using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Methods: Data from 1,342 adult NHANES participants were included. Statistical software for complex survey sample designs was used to perform two multivariable logistic regressions with a binary indicator of depression as the dependent variable: one using dietary caffeine consumption and one using the caffeine metabolite AAMU as the independent variable. Both analyses were adjusted for gender, race/ethnicity, smoking status, and use of anti-depressants. Results: We observed a descriptive, albeit non-significant (p = 0.12), pattern of increasing odds of depression with increasing levels of the AAMU caffeine metabolite. Conclusion: Our finding of a possible association between caffeine metabolite level and depression is compelling because it is independent of self-reported caffeine consumption. Prospective studies are warranted to further explore the temporal relationship.
Training Dieters to Eat Intuitively with a Mobile Application
Authors: Outland Lauren
Published: July 2019

Weight loss is commonly recommended to prevent cardiometabolic diseases like hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. Rather than lead to a long-term healthy weight, dieting can result in weight cycling, which has been shown to be more harmful to health than being overweight. An emerging solution to prevent both excess weight gain and weight cycling is to avoid extremes of hunger and fullness by eating intuitively. Intuitive eating or mindful eating means tuning into interoceptive cues of hunger and fullness to guide when and how much to eat. Mindful eating has been linked to both heart, and metabolic health. It is, however, often labor intensive to retrain chronic dieters to intuitively eat what they need, and nothing more. This study describes a mobile health application that mimics an in-office intuitive eating coaching session. It utilizes homeostasis concepts, and components of the Health Belief Model; including, cues to action, phone prompts, minimal barriers to use, and self-efficacy through repeated immediate feedback. It is expected that this innovation could assist or replace the more labor-intensive in-person methods that exist to train previous dieters to eat intuitively. An enhanced description of this mobile application, the PaleoIntuitive app, is presented in this paper along with a discussion of its expected impact on health behavior.
13th Annual Kids Care Fair
Authors: Silverman Gail
Published: July 2019

The Kids Care Fair is an annual community outreach event of the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles. Details of the 13th Annual Kids Care Fair held in August 2002 are discussed.
Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act
Authors: Sharif Behjat
Published: July 2019

The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act of 2000 (SACPA), also known as Proposition 36, became effective on July 1, 2001. It allows certain nonviolent drug offenders into community-based drug treatment programs instead of incarceration. Funds have been allocated to the California counties for implementation of the law over a five year period. The program involves the cooperation and collaboration of professionals and agencies within the state’s two social service systems: criminal justice and public health. Initial evaluation indicates SACPA’s effectiveness in reducing jail and prison populations, saving funds, and providing drug treatment to a large number of SACPA recipients. The implementation process has faced a number of challenges that must be resolved to ensure Californians’ trust that treatment is more effective than punishment of drug abusers. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the SACPA initiative and present an analysis of its benefits and challenges. Additionally, suggestions are made for health educators’ intervention to ensure effectiveness of SACPA programs in improving public health.
Health Educator Never Retires
Authors: Eaton Muzza
Published: July 2019

This article presents a light-hearted view of a retired health educator now residing in Sacramento, California. A retired health educator continues to involve herself in health-related activities, such as volunteer work, exercise, and participation in environmental enjoyment programs and political advocacy.
Promotora Telemedicine Project
Authors: Higgins Jack , Prendergast J. Joseph
Published: July 2019

The Promotora Telemedicine Project utilizes a telemedicine network to link diabetic patients in underserved areas with teams of physicians and Certified Diabetes Educators who deliver state-of-the-art health care services. Care is assisted by a support network of Spanish-speaking facilitators who serve as a cultural interface between Latino patients and diabetes care providers. This project is designed to test the hypothesis that new technology can be combined with culturally sensitive programs to improve access to high-quality care and to reduce the cost of diabetes care in Santa Clara County, California.
Cultural Adaptation and Training Design
Authors: Martínez-Rubin Norma D. , Pérez Alberto
Published: July 2019

The Hispanic/Latino population in the U.S. has dramatically increased bringing with it richness in history, tradition, attitudes, and practices pertinent to STD/HIV prevention. Non-clinical staffs that work with monolingual Spanish speaking clients often face cultural and linguistic challenges when assessing attitudes, knowledge, and behaviors of persons at risk for STD/HIV. This article describes the process of adapting an existing curriculum for a training, STD Overview for Non-Clinicians, to design a comparable course for bilingual staff primarily working as health educators, counselors, or outreach workers for Spanish speaking communities. Overall, the two-day Resumen de Enfermedades Transmitidas Sexualmente, as delivered by bilingual and bicultural trainers, embraces Hispanic/Latino beliefs and attitudes about sexuality and STD/HIV while concurrently reinforcing cultural norms that support healthy attitudes and practices. Using a scale from 1-5, 1 representing “poor” and 5 representing “excellent,” the overall rating for pilot training sessions combined was 4.9. Written comments were favorable and reflected an appreciation for the design of the course, the availability of appropriate and technically correct information written in Spanish, and the creation of a training opportunity that fostered camaraderie and networking possibilities for the participants.