bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health-Related Data from a Community Risk Reduction Program
Authors: Astorino Todd A. , McGill Wendy
Published: July 2019

The primary aim of this study was to examine baseline data from participants in a community coalition aiming to reduce disease risk and enhance lifestyle modification. Adults (N = 5,876) residing in the Eastern Shore of Maryland enrolled in the program, and were encouraged to re-enroll the following year. Incentives were offered to enhance participation and program adherence. Cooking demonstrations, exercise classes, and lectures were held, and community-wide messages espousing healthy behavior were spread to increase knowledge of healthy behavior. Participants filled out a survey, and body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were measured. Frequency statistics were used to analyze data. BMI (29.73 ± 7.38 kg/m2 ), waist circumference (37.15 ± 6.85 in.), and WHR (0.84 ± 0.09) surpassed healthy values. Intake of fruits and vegetables was low, inactivity was high (50% of members exercised less than two days/week), and diets moderate or high in fat were prevalent (70% of participants). Data confirm the rather unhealthy lifestyle of our local population. Future interventions to enhance wellness and reduce disease in this population are warranted.
Using Photovoice to Examine and Initiate Youth Empowerment in Community-Based Programs
Authors: Royce Sherer W. , Parra-Medina Deborah , Messias DeAnne H.
Published: July 2019

Photovoice is a creative, participatory action research method that puts cameras in the hands of people whose voice is often hushed by the power elite, such as youth, to document issues and concerns as perceived by that group. Adult society provides youth few opportunities to positively influence the laws and regulations that govern their lives or the policies of programs in which they participate. Communitybased programs are one channel for youth to gain skills and opportunities for changing the community context in which they live. Mechanisms to facilitate youth empowerment in these programs, however, are currently vague and imprecise. Photovoice was implemented in two community-based youth programs in South Carolina to examine and initiate youth empowerment in those communities. This article details the process and lessons learned from conducting Photovoice with youth in out-of-school, community-based youth program settings. While roadblocks appeared for both the youth researchers and the universitybased investigative team, the Photovoice method was embraced by the youth who participated in the research process. Some challenges the investigative team experienced for implementation included geographic distance between the Photovoice project facilitator and the youth, challenges of working with youth and their competing commitments, an uncertainty of youth expectations, and underestimation of time and other resources.
Parental Beliefs and Perceptions of the Role of Middle Schools in Student Tobacco Use Prevention Activities in Juárez, Mexico
Authors: Bird Yelena , Moraros John , Buckingham Robert W. , Staines-Orozco Hugo , Brandon Jeffrey E.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine parental beliefs and perceptions of the role that schools should play in implementing smoking prevention activities for their children in Juárez, Mexico. The parents were of sixth grade students from six randomly selected middle schools. Schools were classified by school setting and socioeconomic status. A total of 506 surveys were sent to the homes of the parents and 77% (N=390) responded. The majority of the parents (88%) were supportive of smoking prevention activities. Furthermore, mothers were significantly more likely than fathers to agree that the school had an important role to play in smoking prevention activities (p
Role of Classroom Teachers in Nutrition and Physical Education
Authors: Prelip Michael , Erausquin Jennifer T. , Slusser Wendelin , Vecchiarelli Stephanie , Weightman Heather , Lange Linda , Neumann Charlotte
Published: July 2019

Nutrition education and physical education in schools is increasingly being explored as a way to prevent childhood overweight and to promote healthy eating and physical activity habits behaviors. Classroom teachers are often responsible for providing this education. The current study examined the roles and perspectives of elementary school teachers regarding student nutrition, nutrition education, and physical education. Data is from a 2001-2002 study of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Nutrition Network. Analyses were based on 78 structured interviews with elementary school teachers. Results showed that teachers perceive their role in nutrition education as teachers, role models, advocates, and motivators. Teachers integrate nutrition education into existing subject areas, and believe that nutrition education results in greater knowledge and healthier food choices. However, teachers report that too little time is spent on nutrition education. Results of this study also indicate that classroom teachers are often responsible for physical education (PE). Teachers believe PE has a positive effect on the school community and on student fitness, but the effect is limited due to lack of structure and lack of time in PE class. Teachers report barriers to both nutrition education and physical education, including other classes taking up too much time, limited teacher training, and a lack of adequate equipment and facilities. Findings suggest that more resources including teacher training, time, curricula and textbooks, and equipment need to be allocated for nutrition education and physical education at the elementary school level.
Characteristics of Clients at a Primary Care Clinic on the US/Mexico Border
Authors: Poss Jane E.
Published: July 2019

The goal of this study was to analyze the demographic and health characteristics of individuals seeking health care at a primary care clinic in San Elizario, Texas, a poor, largely Hispanic community located on the US/Mexico Border. The researchers also sought to obtain preliminary information about what services and assistance clients would find most helpful. A secondary goal of the study was to evaluate use of the health center by farmworkers during the local harvest season. Data were gathered from a convenience sample of 185 participants, 11 of whom were classified as farmworkers. Characteristics of the respondents and their responses to an open-ended question about health services are reported.
The Reality of Health Promotion
Authors: Van Leuven Karen
Published: July 2019

This pilot project examined the value of health promotion activities in clinical practice and the personal lives of 28 master’s entry Clinical Nurse Leader (CNL) students in their last semester of education. Data collection involved an open-ended questionnaire and focus group discussion. Students expressed concern about finding time for health promotion and noted that patients were often too sick to be appropriate for health promotion. Participants believed that health promotion was better situated in community-based care. Of great concern to students was the lack of role models for health promotion among faculty and staff. Students also noted a decreased ability to attend to their own health while enrolled in the nursing program.
Health Connections
Authors: Pines Eula W. , Rauschhuber Maureen , Williams Sarah
Published: July 2019

Nearly half of Zambia's population is under 15 years old, with an estimated 630,000 “AIDS orphans,” children who’s parents have died from HIV/AIDS, and are now left to survive without complete families. Zambian caregivers of these AIDS orphans have been overwhelmed with the task of providing grief counseling services to these children. Nursing professionals at the University of the Incarnate Word responded to the professional development needs of grief counselors in Zambia, and launched Health Connections in 2004-2006. Health Connections is a cross-cultural grief education program designed to educate caregivers in a rural Zambian village on how to help grieving children. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the process of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the Health Connections “train-the-trainers” program.
Body Image Perceptions and Eating Patterns Among Preadolescent Children
Authors: Skemp-Arlt Karen M. , Mikat Richard P.
Published: July 2019

Preadolescent children are showing patterns of body distortion and unhealthy dieting practices to attempt weight manipulation. The present study examined body image perceptions and interest in weight manipulation among 215 preadolescent children (girls, n =101) (mean age = 10) in third, fourth, and fifth grades. To measure body image perceptions, children were asked to answer two multiple choice questions: I think I am: fat, skinny, in-between; and I would like to: lose weight, gain weight, stay the same. Interest in weight manipulation was measured using the Children’s Eating Attitude Test (ChEAT). Results indicated that children show a fairly accurate perception of their body shape and size and this remained consistent for both genders and across all age groups. ANOVA results showed children who felt they were “fat” had a significantly higher level of disturbed eating patterns (ChEAT mean = 14.00) compared to the children who felt they were “in-between” (ChEAT mean = 6.95) (p = .009). Children who indicated they would like to “lose weight” had significantly higher ChEAT scores (mean = 9.19) than those who wanted to “stay the same” (mean = 6.56) (p = .033). ChEAT scores for girls showed a significant difference between the “fat” group (mean = 29.00) and the “in-between” group (mean = 6.81) (p < .001) and between the “fat” group and the “skinny” group (mean = 10.78) (p = .002). Twenty-five percent of this sample of children indicated a desire to “lose weight” (mean body mass index = 21.35) and 67% desired to “stay the same” (mean body mass index = 17.45). Preadolescent children are showing a desire for a thinner body type and are already developing a motivation to avoid weight gain or obesity through dietary manipulation. Early identification of body distortion and disturbed eating patterns could help with education and prevention strategies.
Factors Affecting the Consumption of Away-from-Home Foods in Hawai`i Residents
Authors: Ahedo Angelina M. , Lee Taryn W. , Pan Joan , Heinrich Katie M. , Keller Stefan , Maddock Jay
Published: July 2019

Higher frequencies of consuming away-from-home foods has been associated with greater Body Mass Index (BMI), weight gain, and obesity, affecting people of different genders, ethnicities, and socioeconomic status (SES) groups differently. The purpose of this study was to determine how SES, ethnicity, gender, and the frequency of away-from-home food consumption at fast food and sit-down restaurants affected BMI levels and dieting practices for Hawai`i residents. Data were from a cross-sectional randomdigit dial telephone survey of the state of Hawai`i in the spring of 2006. Data were analyzed using a oneway ANOVA, Pearson's bivariate correlation analysis, a linear regression model, and direct logistic regression. Native Hawaiians reported eating at fast food restaurants most often (58.5%), while Japanese participants reported eating at sit-down restaurants most often (48.6%). Native Hawaiians had the highest rates of overweight and obesity (69.1%), but they were most likely to report being on a diet (50.1%), followed by Chinese participants (49.5%). A higher frequency of eating at fast food restaurants was related to higher BMI, male gender and less education (p < .05), while a higher frequency of eating at sitdown restaurants was related to higher income and more education (p < .05). Higher BMI and lower income were related to dieting to lose weight (p < .05). Over 6% of the variance in BMI was accounted for by gender, income, eating at fast food and sit-down restaurants, and dieting to lose weight, F(59, 1440) = 18.63, p < .05. The frequency of eating at fast food and sit-down restaurants as predictors for dieting to lose weight were not statistically significant (p > .05). Future research should investigate what types of food are available at fast food, sit-down restaurants, or other away-from-home food sources and which types of foods at these locations consumers are more likely to select based on their SES, BMI, or dieting practices.
Yoga, Physical Education, and Self-Esteem
Authors: Bridges Kaci A. , Madlem Melody S.
Published: July 2019

Researchers studied increases in self-esteem of eighth-grade students after participation in regular physical education and yoga-enhanced physical education classes. Self-esteem was measured by the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. The Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory was given pre, mid, and post test in both the experimental and control group. The results showed that over the course of the eightweek intervention, self-esteem did increase in both the experimental and control groups. There was no significant difference in self-esteem between regular physical education activities and yoga. The study revealed the importance of physical activity, including yoga, for enhancing self-esteem. Theories for why self-esteem increased over time are discussed in the study.
To Hell and Back
Authors: DeBarr Kathy A.
Published: July 2019

To Hell and Back: Wounded Warriors Return Home to Fight Yet Another Battle
Regional Conference Planning
Authors: Harris J. L. , Zarco E. P.
Published: July 2019

National, state and local mandates require professional development for K-12 and community health educators to keep knowledge and skills current, to maintain certification and to enhance professional practice. Meeting these mandates at the local level presents a challenge because of limited professional development opportunities and a lack of funds for travel or release time from work. This paper describes the evolution of HealthNets, a network of health educators who utilized various modes and venues of professional development opportunities that are accessible, reflect best practices and help fulfill national, state and local mandates. Conference planning, implementation, evaluation and lessons learned are discussed.
Aging and the Media
Authors: Vickers Kim
Published: July 2019

This paper describes the influence the media have on people and how it effects their view of the elderly. It describes aspects of the American media from the 1970s through today and discusses the changes that have occurred. Specific examples drawn from television, advertising, entertainment, and music are used to demonstrate how the media change audience perceptions and what must be done to improve perceptions of and attitudes toward elderly people today.
Does Involvement in Healthy Eating Among University Students Differ Based on Exercise Status and Reasons for Exercise?
Authors: King Keith A. , Mohl Krista , Bernard Amy L. , Vidourek Rebecca A.
Published: July 2019

Background. Unhealthy nutritional habits are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the US. Research indicates that regular physical activity can influence dietary habits of adults. Purpose. The purpose of this study was to examine whether university students’ involvement in healthy eating differed based on current exercise status and reported reasons for exercising. Methods. A sample of 204 university students completed a 22-item survey on healthy eating and physical activity. Results. Less than 10% met all Food Guide recommendations. The leading barriers to healthy eating were time, convenience and healthy food availability. Less than half exercised on four or more days each week. The leading reasons for exercising were to improve appearance, improve health and lose weight. Being physically active did not have a significant effect on healthy eating, nor did specific reason for exercising. Discussion. Most students did not eat healthy and their physical activity levels did not significantly affect their nutritional habits. Increased awareness campaigns are warranted. Conclusions. Strategies other than physical activity promotion are needed to positively impact students’ healthy eating behaviors. Students should continue to be educated about healthy nutrition and ways to reduce perceived barriers to healthy eating.
Tobacco Prevention Interventions in Adolescents
Authors: Kanekar Amar , Sharma Manoj
Published: July 2019

Tobacco use is a major public health problem in our society. Tobacco addiction begins in adolescence and majority of smokers start using tobacco in the age group between 11-13 years. There are a number of tobacco prevention strategies targeted towards the youth such as school-based educational interventions, community-based interventions, advertising restrictions on tobacco use, youth access restrictions and public health education. The purpose of this article is to review smoking prevention educational interventions in adolescents conducted either in the school or community setting. In order to collect the materials for the study, a search of CINAHL, MEDLINE and ERIC databases was conducted for the time period 1985-2006. A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. Eight out of the 15 interventions were targeted towards students in grades 6-7 which makes sense as majority of the adolescents start using tobacco in the age group 11-13 years. Nine out of 15 interventions reviewed did not use any behavioral theory. The six articles that used theory used social learning theory, community organizing theory, transactional and systems theory of environmental change and some constructs from transtheoretical model. There is need to explicitly reify behavioral theories by tobacco prevention interventions. Characteristics of the length of the intervention, personnel conducting the intervention, types of activities included in the interventions, and process evaluation results are discussed in the article. Recommendations for developing future educational interventions for preventing tobacco use in adolescents are discussed.
Factors Influencing the Intention to Quit Drinking Alcohol Among African American/Black Pregnant Women
Authors: Jones Tamarra C. , Modeste Naomi , Anderson Barbara , Lee Jerry , Lim V. Joyce
Published: July 2019

Factors influencing the intention to quit drinking alcohol among pregnant African American/Black women in San Bernardino and Riverside counties, California were investigated using the theory of planned behavior. Qualitative data were collected via focus groups from 22 pregnant women to ascertain behavioral outcomes, normative, and control beliefs associated with drinking during pregnancy. These data were used to develop a quantitative questionnaire. One hundred forty eight questionnaires were analyzed. Most of the women (86%) reported current alcohol use and 14% were former users. When adjusted for attenuation the correlation of intention with perceived control was .89, attitude .80, and subjective norm .77 all of which were statistically significant. The prediction of these three from their underlying beliefs provides insight into factors which may need to be changed to reduce alcohol use by pregnant African American/ Black women.
Prescribing Individually Tailored Exercise as a Means of Increasing Health Promotion Among University Faculty, Staff, and Students
Authors: Blair Robert G. , Keele Becky , Kozel Charles
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the study was to develop and monitor an individualized exercise health promotion program for faculty, staff, and students at the College of Health and Social Services (CHSS) at New Mexico State University. It was hypothesized that participants would: 1) increase the number of minutes exercised per week; 2) reduce their body weight and body mass index; and 3) report an increase in their Quality of Life. At pretest, the more participants exercised, the higher they rated their quality of life. These differences were significant. Other results showed a non-significant trend toward an increase in duration of minutes exercised, a decrease in body mass, and an increase in quality of life.
Reinventing Yourself
Authors: Goldman Karen Denard
Published: July 2019

Everyone (not just people who have been fired or fear they are about to be) reinvents themselves personally and professionally at some time or other...deliberately or inadvertently, strategically or impetuously. In fact, the author argues that professional reinvention is not only a good defense, but a great offense, pointing out how reinvention can help you take charge of your life as well as accommodate new work world realities. To support and encourage professional reinvention, the author couches the value of being able to transform yourself professionally in the context that health education itself is a profession that is constantly reinventing itself. The article includes a definition of reinvention and discussions about who reinvents themselves and when and why, and stories of six health educators and how they reinvented themselves. The article ends with suggested reinvention pre-requisites to foster successful work life transitions and transformations, and a list of ten tips for successful professional reinvention(s).
Determinants of Demand for HIV Testing
Authors: Friesner Dan , Cashel-Cordo Peter , McPherson Matthew Q.
Published: July 2019

This paper provides an initial empirical analysis of the impact of changing epidemiological, economic and sociological conditions on the amount of HIV testing in primary care, outpatient clinics. Particular attention is paid to examining whether changes in HIV/AIDS prevalence impact the amount of testing these clinics perform, and also how financial constraints impact this relationship. Using a sample of California clinics, we find that changing epidemiological conditions do impact the demand for HIV testing. Additionally, certain clinic characteristics, such as the type of practitioners providing care and the socio-economic characteristics of patients treated at each clinic also affect the demand for testing. However, we find little evidence supporting increased government or private grants, contracts and donations as a means of enhancing the demand for HIV testing.
Household Food Insecurity Predictive of Health Status in Early Adolescence? A Structural Analysis Using the 2002 NSAF Data Set
Authors: Ashiabi Godwin S. , O'Neal Keri K.
Published: July 2019

We used data from the 2002 National Survey of American Families to examine a structural model of the relations among food insecurity, poor nutritional status, parental mental health problems, quality of parenting, adolescents’ emotional distress, and poor health status for a national sample of 5366 12-to-14 year-olds. The results revealed that: first, food insecurity was associated with elevated levels of parental mental health problems, diminished quality of parenting, elevated levels of adolescents’ emotional problems, and higher incidence of poor nutritional and health statuses. Second, parental mental health problems were associated with diminished quality of parenting and higher incidence of poor health status; and quality of parenting had a negative effect on emotional distress, but not on health status. Finally, poor nutritional status was associated with elevated levels of emotional distress and higher incidence of poor health status; and emotional distress was predictive of poor health status. The findings of this study highlight the mediating role of nutritional status, parenting factors and adolescents’ emotional well-being in the link between food insecurity and health; and point to the complex interaction between food insecurity and health status.
Factors Associated with Sexual Intercourse Among African-Born Adolescents in Southern California
Authors: Anjejo Dixon , Modeste Naomi N. , Lee Jerry W. , Wilson Colwick M.
Published: July 2019

Based on the theory of planned behavior the research aims were to: (a) ascertain how attitude, subjective norm, and perceived control predict intentions to engage in sexual intercourse among Black, African-born adolescents in Southern California; and (b) determine how behavioral beliefs, normative beliefs, and control beliefs predict attitude, subjective norm and perceived control. A questionnaire was developed based on focus group findings. One hundred and thirty-five adolescents aged 15 to 19 years completed the questionnaire. The strongest predictor of intention was attitude, then subjective norm. Enjoying sex, “wanting to be a parent” and to “keep sexual partners” predicted attitude. Educative, informative, cultural and faith based programs, if initiated may help African adolescents in Southern California.
Race, Skin Color and Genetic Ancestry
Authors: Kittles Rick A. , Santos Eunice R. , Oji-Njideka Nefertiti S. , Bonilla Carolina
Published: July 2019

Defining race continues to be a nemesis. Knowledge from human genetic research continuously challenges the notion that race and biology are inextricably linked, with implications across biomedical and public health disciplines. While it has become fashionable for scientists to declare that race is merely a social construction, there is little practical value to this belief since few in the public believe and act on it. In the U.S., race has largely been based on skin color and ancestry, both of which exhibit large variances within communities of color. Yet biomedical studies continue to examine black / white group differences in health. Here we discuss why using race in biomedical studies is problematic using examples from two U.S. groups (African and Hispanic Americans) which transcend ‘racial’ boundaries and bear the burden of health disparities.
Black Women and Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Cole Portia L.
Published: July 2019

This qualitative study sought to center the personal experiences of Black American women affected by Sickle Cell disease (SCD) within the broader policy discussion of mental health disparities. Previous research suggests that stress may serve as a trigger for painful episodes which may contribute to increased rates of psychiatric morbidity in this population. The sample consisted of 10 women who perceived disease related stress in various social settings. Data was collected via tape recorded interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. The findings shed light on the role of perceived social stressors as potential determinants of mental health disparities among SCD women. The development of a gender and race specific psychosocial screening instrument which measures the social correlates of stress in this population is warranted. Amelioration of the social conditions that place SCD women at risk for poor mental health outcomes should be the ultimate policy goal.
Residential Perceptions of Environmental Exposures and Associated Health Effects in the Fresno, Texas Community
Authors: King Denae W. , Chukelu Paul C. , Freelon Brandi N. , Lewis Anissa J. , Jones Lovell A.
Published: July 2019

Background: Environmental contaminants are often located in areas heavily populated by African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos, and the poor. In many communities, the discovery of environmental hazards occurs following concern and investigation by its constituents. The residents of Fresno, Texas, which is a predominantly minority community located near Houston, Texas, have long-standing undocumented concerns related to potential environmental exposures and associated health effects. To begin to document the concerns of the members of the Fresno community, we used focus group methodology to examine the resident’s perceptions of the environment in the Fresno community, potential routes and sources of environmental exposures, and how Fresno residents perceived that these environmental hazards could affect their health. Methods: Focus group methodology was used to assess the Fresno communities’ perceptions of environmental exposure, perceived routes of exposure, and perceived adverse health affects. Nineteen Fresno residents took part in four focus group discussions that were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis. Results: The residential participants overwhelmingly described poor water quality in the Fresno community. While some residents perceived that the air quality was good or clear, others described the air as poor or potentially dangerous. Some residents identified the local chemical companies, a landfill, chlorination, and a lack of public water supply as potential sources of contamination in the Fresno community. The residents perceived that environmental exposures could potentially affect their health status, in particular the drinking water. Conclusions: The findings of our study convey the concerns of the members of the Fresno community. Potential environmental exposures were identified along with sources of environmental hazards. Although there were differing perceptions of air quality, the perceptions of water quality and sources of contamination were consistent. These findings should be used in developing a larger-scale environmental health assessment in the Fresno community to examine self-reported health status and measure contaminant levels in the residential drinking water.
Understanding the Socio-Economic, Health Systems & Policy Threats to Latino Health
Authors: Cacari Stone Lisa , Viruell-Fuentes Edna A. , Acevedo-Garcia Dolores
Published: July 2019

The emergence of the Latino population as the largest and diverse minority group in the U.S. presents challenges and opportunities for health practitioners, leaders and policy makers. Some evidence suggests that Latinos, and immigrants in particular, exhibit better health outcomes than would be expected given their average socio-economic status. Yet, overshadowing this positive health outlook are socio-economic, health system and policy barriers which disproportionately impact Latino health and well-being. This paper briefly discusses the Latino health paradox. It identifies the socio-economic, health systems barriers and public policies that threaten any potential health advantage. Finally, it suggests policy and prevention strategies for promoting the health of the largest emerging minority group in the U.S. Latinos.
Modes and locales of physical activity
Authors: Bungum Timothy J. , Thompson-Robinson Melva
Published: July 2019

Older adults are important from a public health standpoint as the number and proportion of elderly in our population is increasing. Further, this segment of the population is characterized by low physical activity involvement and suffers from hypokinetic diseases at high rates. Thus, health promoters should be aware of the types of PA that older adults engage in, and where that PA occurs. The purpose of this study was to describe the modes of PA in which middle-aged and older adults engage in and locales of where that PA occurs. An additional purpose was to identify predictors of meeting PA guidelines that have been created by experts. We also sought to determine if participation in social activities predicted meeting PA guidelines, as both are important aspects of aging. Knowledge of such information could be valuable in designing PA interventions. Methods: The study design was cross-sectional and all data was collected via a telephone interview. A racially mixed sample of 350 females and 199 males completed a 52-item survey that included measures of PA behavior and neighborhood characteristics. Twenty participants failed to report their gender and were excluded from the analysis. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of meeting PA guidelines. Results: Participant ages ranged from 45-89 years (M = 60.8). The most frequently cited mode of PA was walking, by 53.7% of the sample, most of which occurred near residences (63.6%). Only 11.2% of participants met PA guidelines by doing either moderately or vigorously intense PA. Predictors of meeting PA guidelines included doing PA in a community facility or fitness club, and participation in social activities, which approached significance. Public health personnel should recommend activities, especially walking, to older adults that can be done near their homes, and future research should assess neighborhood characteristics that are supportive of, or hinder the PA of older adults.
Should California Reconsider Its Legal Drinking Age?
Authors: Males Mike
Published: July 2019

The recent call by 120 American college presidents for reassessment of the legal drinking age of 21 occurs as earlier studies prove to be increasingly limited and outdated. This study tests drinking age effects during the 1975-2005 period using Incidence Rate Ratio analysis of fatal traffic accident and violent death trends among persons ages 16-17, 18-20, and 21-24, as states with lower drinking ages at the time later raised their age limits to 21. Corresponding trends among ages 25-44 and in states that maintained constant drinking ages of 21 were used as control series. The 10 states that maintained “graduated drinking ages” of 18 for beer and/or wine displayed significantly lower violent death incidences among young people than did states with drinking ages for all alcoholic beverages of 18, 19, 20, or 21. This secondary data analysis suggests that California could reduce violent deaths, especially from homicides and motor vehicles, among 18-20-year-olds by approximately 9%, with similar benefits for 16-17- and 21-24-year-olds, if the legal drinking age for beer and wine was reduced to 18 and a controlled system of low-alcohol bars was initiated.
Multi-Year Survey of Physical Activity among College Students, their Families, and Friends
Authors: Lamont Deane A. , Marks Derek W.
Published: July 2019

The 1996 U.S. Surgeon General’s report on Physical Activity and Health revealed disturbingly low rates of physical activity among Americans. The report publicized the already well-documented link between inadequate exercise and chronic disease and its authors urged the nation to become more physically active. More than a decade has passed since the report was released, but most U.S. adults still do not engage in regular physical activity. Annually since 1996, undergraduate students at Saint Mary’s College of California have surveyed the exercise behaviors of their adult peers, family and friends. The results of this time series study have revealed important statistical trends in exercise behaviors, and allowed comparisons with national physical activity data. Since 1996, both the Saint Mary’s subjects and the general population reported less physical inactivity and higher rates of exercise that meet or exceed what is generally recommended for maintaining or improving health. The Saint Mary’s subjects were, by percentage, more likely to be physically active than the national population. Despite this good news, the study also revealed that a disturbingly high percentage of the Saint Mary’s subjects and the national population were physically inactive or only engaged in limited physical activity.
College Students’ Perceptions of a Safe Spring Break Event
Authors: Snyder Shonna L. , Misera Lauren
Published: July 2019

The most recent National College Health Assessment (2007) revealed that college students are engaging in risky health behaviors that are putting them at risk for death, disease, and injury. Studies suggest that certain college student risk behaviors, such as consuming alcohol, increases around certain times of the year and at certain events. Event specific prevention (ESP) programs have been introduced to many college campuses in order to address these risky behaviors. ESP is a strategy designed to reduce risk behaviors around certain events or during times of the year when risk behaviors increase. The purpose of this study was to determine college students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of a Safe Spring Break ESP program. A cross sectional survey, conducted with 223 students from a large Southeastern university, revealed that 89.9% learned something new at the event and 84.5% reported the information would be helpful while on spring break. Also, many students felt the event was effective or extremely effective at increasing their knowledge regarding specific health behaviors surrounding spring break. This study encourages universities to invest in implementing ESP programs. Recommendations for student wellness, student counseling, and student services regarding ESP programs are included.
Examining the efficacy of DVD technology in COPD self-management education of rural patients
Authors: Stellefson Michael , Chaney Beth H. , Don Chaney J.
Published: July 2019

A pilot study (n = 41) was conducted to test the effects of three educational treatments (DVD vs. Pamphlet vs. DVD + Pamphlet) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), COPD information needs and self-efficacy among a referred sample of Certified Federal Rural Health Clinic patients (mean age = 61.51 years ± 6.29 years; ~61% female) suffering from COPD using a randomly-assigned, multiple-group pretest-posttest design with a control group. A MANCOVA testing planned multivariate contrasts determined patients receiving a DVD reported statistically significant higher levels of lung-specific physical functioning as compared to patients receiving a Pamphlet. Additionally, DVD patients reported clinically significant improvements on two dimensions of lung-specific HRQoL. No such improvements occurred within the Pamphlet and Control groups. The provision of self-management education as compared to usual care, however, did not improve the outcome variables examined.
Autism Really a ‘Public Health Crisis?
Authors: Sandler Lou
Published: July 2019

The California Blue Ribbon Commission on Autism’s September, 2007 report identified Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a ‘public health crisis’ and ‘epidemic’ recommending an “Office of ASD” under Public Health. The Commission also said that health plans should provide “full…” services for ASD. With this, the Commission set the groundwork for a potential misdirection of public health funding, increased litigation, and unnecessary competition between families and providers of children with special needs. Though the report acknowledges that honest differences exist, it then incorrectly asserts that each has equal relevance. Rather than a ‘public health crisis,’ autism should be viewed as a crisis of instruction requiring better coordination of available services and existing knowledge with targeted support for schools, families and community providers.
Alcohol Use among Adolescents
Authors: Cheever Audrey , Weiss Jie
Published: July 2019

Alcohol consumption is a major social problem throughout the US. This study seeks to identify the risk and protective factors associated with adolescent alcohol drinking by examining social psychological variables. Selected items from a baseline questionnaire for a two year drug prevention study were used to conduct bivariate and logistic regression analyses. Respondents (N=2787) were seventh graders in ten middle schools throughout Orange County. The results suggested that individuals with poor academic performance and a sensation seeking personality were the most likely to consume alcohol. Knowing the characteristics of those who are most likely to engage in alcohol use is a necessary step towards developing programs that aim to combat adolescent drinking.
Associations between Leisure Activities and HIV Risk Behaviors among Rural Migrants in Urban China
Authors: Chen Xinguang , Li Xiaoming , Stanton Bonita , Fang Xiaoyi , Lin Danhua , Mao Rong
Published: July 2019

Although much has been documented on factors affecting HIV risk behavior among rural-to-urban migrants in China, data are lacking on the impact of leisure activities. In this study, we examined the association between leisure activities and HIV risk behavior among a sample of rural-to-urban migrants from two large cities (Beijing and Nanjing) in China. Cross-sectional data were analyzed for a sample of 4,085 participants aged 18 to 30 years (40.5% females). Findings from the analysis indicated that although the migrants worked long hours, they engaged in a number of activities when they did not work, including watching television (60.2%), reading (59.1%), sleeping (55.6%), and chatting with friends and co-workers (45.0%). Multiple regression analysis indicated that reading, doing chores (females only), listening to radio programs/audio CDs (male only) were associated with reduced likelihood of HIV risk behavior while playing cards in groups, visiting entertaining installments, watching videos (including Xrated, males only), and wondering around (females only) were associated with increased likelihood of HIV risk behavior. Findings of this study suggest that constructive and individualized activities (e.g., reading, listening to radios, and doing chores) may prevent migrants from engage in HIV risk behaviors while group and entertaining activities related to drugs and sex may increase the odds for migrants to engage in HIV risk behaviors. Prevention research should consider leisure activities as both an influential factor (including time trends and gender differences) for program development and an important venue for program delivery.
Factors associated with self-competence and quality of life in Chinese-American children
Authors: Chen Jyu-Lin , Ellen Wilkosz Mary
Published: July 2019

The goal of this study was to examine factors associated with self-competence and quality of life in Chinese-American children. A cross-sectional design was used to examine factors associated with Chinese-American children’s self-competence (perception of their own competence) and quality of life. Body mass index was used to measure children’s relative weight. Children completed the Self-Perception Profile for Children, the Pediatric Quality of Life self-report, and the Children's Self-Administered Physical Activity Checklist. Parents provided demographic information and reported their level of acculturation. Sixty-five 8- and 10-year-old Chinese-American children (49% boys, 51% girls) and their parents participated in the study. Boys reported higher levels of competence in athletics than girls reported. Multivariate regression models reveal that an increased level of sedentary activity in Chinese American children contributes to low competence levels with respect to physical appearance and decreased quality of life in the social health domain. Increased BMI is related to decreased selfcompetence in physical appearance. Low levels of sedentary activity have a great influence on selfcompetence and quality of life in Chinese American children. The development of culturally appropriate programs that decrease sedentary activity and improve quality of life is critical for health promotion among Chinese Americans.
Breaking Down the Silence
Authors: Shenoy Divya P. , Neranartkomol Rosalyn , Ashok Monisha , Chiang Anne , Lam Amy G. , Leng Trieu Sang
Published: July 2019

Sexual assault is a widespread problem with high prevalence among college women. Disclosure of such experiences is important because it can help mitigate stress, anxiety, and depression related to sexual assault. This article provides data on sexual assault prevalence of Asian American college women and their subsequent help-seeking patterns. Using a community-based participatory research approach, crosssectional data were obtained through a Web-based quantitative survey (N=809). Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests conducted revealed that 35% of undergraduate female students experienced some form of sexual assault in their lifetime, and that more than half of women (54%) reported that their most recent incident occurred during college. The three largest Asian American ethnic sub-groups represented in the study, Chinese, South Asian, and Filipina, reported higher sexual assault prevalence during college than other ethnic groups. Women were more likely to disclose to informal sources, such as friends, family, and partners, than to formal sources. Asian Americans disclosed less often than Whites, 50% vs. 59%, respectively. The article explores existing resources to encourage disclosure and help-seeking behavior on campus, and provides suggestions for creating a more responsive campus environment.
Effects of Six Weeks of Balance and Strength Training on Measures of Dynamic Balance of Older Adults
Authors: Knerl Christopher J. , Schuler Petra B. , Taylor Lemuel W. , Cosio-lima Ludmila M. , Caillouet Karla A.
Published: July 2019

Purpose: Reliable tools on measuring outcomes of service-learning (SL) are scarce. This study aimed to develop and test a service-learning assessment tool to measure students’ perceived self-efficacy on program planning related competencies (SL-SEPP) and an overall SL impact scale. Methods: Students in a core Master of Public Health (MPH) course on program planning participated in the study (n=44). Course-based SL projects were incorporated into the learning process. Data from the baseline survey were used to assess the reliability of the 12-item SL-SEPP, and data from the posttest survey were used to assess the 5-item overall SL impact scale at the end of the course. Results: Data showed satisfactory reliability scores, with Cronbach alpha of .87 for the SL-SEPP and .84 for the overall impact scale. Even with this relatively small sample size, preliminary analyses showed that the SL-SEPP was sensitive to detect meaningful changes of self-efficacy scores after the course. Conclusion: This study provides needed pilot data supporting the reliabilities of the SL-SEPP tool. The study has implications for researchers and educators to apply or adapt this tool to assess student self-efficacy outcomes on program planning competencies.
Measuring the Infusion of Service-Learning on Student Outcomes–The Service-Learning Self-Efficacy Scale on Program Planning Competencies (SL-SEPP)
Authors: Hou Su-I
Published: July 2019

Purpose: Reliable tools on measuring outcomes of service-learning (SL) are scarce. This study aimed to develop and test a service-learning assessment tool to measure students’ perceived self-efficacy on program planning related competencies (SL-SEPP) and an overall SL impact scale. Methods: Students in a core Master of Public Health (MPH) course on program planning participated in the study (n=44). Course-based SL projects were incorporated into the learning process. Data from the baseline survey were used to assess the reliability of the 12-item SL-SEPP, and data from the posttest survey were used to assess the 5-item overall SL impact scale at the end of the course. Results: Data showed satisfactory reliability scores, with Cronbach alpha of .87 for the SL-SEPP and .84 for the overall impact scale. Even with this relatively small sample size, preliminary analyses showed that the SL-SEPP was sensitive to detect meaningful changes of self-efficacy scores after the course. Conclusion: This study provides needed pilot data supporting the reliabilities of the SL-SEPP tool. The study has implications for researchers and educators to apply or adapt this tool to assess student self-efficacy outcomes on program planning competencies.
Sexual Health Variables and the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine
Authors: Barry Victoria , Myers Shannon B. , Sgrenci Amy E. , Lavery Megan , Frum Deirdra , O'Hea Erin L.
Published: July 2019

Recent strides have been made in developing vaccines to prevent contraction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is currently the most prevalent sexually transmitted disease in the United States. This study looked to investigate seven sexually relevant variables hypothesized to be related to a young woman's choice to receive the Gardasil® vaccine in order to prevent HPV contraction via a cross sectional survey. In a sample of 77 undergraduate women, we investigated the relationship between receipt of Gardasil® and the following variables: knowledge regarding HPV, relationship status, seeking gynecological services, having received an abnormal PAP smear, sexual activity status, number of sexual partners, and concern about contracting HPV. Logistical regression analysis and independent groups t-test revealed that none of these factors were related to actual receipt of the HPV vaccine in this sample. These results suggest the need for more research regarding potential practical barriers to HPV vaccination.