Community Outreach Programs Research Articles

Building bridges with the Pennsylvania State Police: A pilot assessment of a Law Enforcement Community Outreach Program

Abstract In 2021, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) created and implemented the Building Bridges Community Outreach Program (BBCOP), which is a positive law enforcement-initiated non-enforcement contact intervention designed to educate the public and improve community relations. To date, there have been no empirical assessments of the influence that this program has had on public perceptions of police. The current study attempts to fill this gap in the literature by offering an assessment of BBCOP participants’ perceptions of the program, and their perceptions of police before and after participating in the program. Specifically, the current study uses a mixed-method analysis of matched (i.e. pre- and post-intervention) survey data (n = 106) collected from student participants of initial iterations of the PSP BBCOP intervention occurring between the end of January 2023 and the end of January 2024. Findings reveal that BBCOP participants overwhelmingly reported positive sentiments about their experiences with the program. Further, statistical analyses revealed significant improvements in perceptions of law enforcement effectiveness, procedural justice, and legitimacy following participation in the program. Implications based on these findings are discussed within.

Clinical Profile, Prognostic Factors and Surgical Outcomes in Lens Induced Glaucoma: A Prospective Study from a Tertiary Care Centre in Western Maharashtra, India

Introduction: Cataracts are a major cause of preventable blindness in India. A considerable number of patients continue to present with advanced cataracts, which can result in complications such as Lens Induced Glaucoma (LIG). LIG is a secondary glaucoma that occurs due to mature or hypermature cataracts, potentially causing significant visual impairment. Aim: To determine the clinical presentation, prognostic factors, and surgical outcomes in patients with LIG. Materials and Methods: A prospective study involving 60 patients with LIG was conducted at a tertiary care centre in Western Maharashtra, India from September 2022 to June 2024. All patients underwent Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS) and were followed-up postoperatively on day 1, day 7, and week 6. Results: The mean age of the patients was 69.03 years, with 66.7% being females. Symptoms such as pain, redness, headache and diminished vision were present in all patients. The mean duration of symptoms was 4.08 days. All patients presented with poor visual acuity (<6/60), and the majority had shallow Anterior Chamber (AC) depth (83.3%). The highest number of cases exhibited elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP), with a range of 41-50 mmHg. Postoperative visual outcomes improved significantly by week 6 in 51.7% of patients. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and management of cataracts are crucial in preventing LIG and improving visual outcomes. Community outreach programs for early detection and management are essential in a developing country like India.

Eco Friendly Design of Dental Clinic

The design of eco-friendly dental clinics is gaining traction worldwide as part of a broader movement towards sustainable healthcare facilities. This project focuses on transforming a residential building in Oman into an eco-friendly dental clinic, aiming to set a benchmark for energy-efficient and sustainable healthcare design in the region. Key features include the use of biomass heating, natural and recyclable materials, and collaboration with local manufacturers to reduce carbon emissions. The clinic will be designed to accommodate 10-20 patients at a time and include five rooms: a family hall, treatment rooms, a laboratory, a store, and a restroom. Staffed by 5-10 employees, the clinic’s design prioritizes functionality and efficiency. This project not only enhances the building’s utility but also promotes environmental consciousness and a sustainable future. Recommendations include the integration of solar energy systems, water-saving technologies, and community outreach programs to educate the public on the benefits of sustainable practices in healthcare.

Empowering Communities: A Review of Community-Based Outreach Programs in Controlling Hypertension in India.

India's epidemiological shift from communicable to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) signifies the impact of healthcare advancements and changing lifestyles. Despite declines in infectious diseases, challenges related to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes have risen. Approximately one in four Indian adults has hypertension, with only 12% maintaining controlled blood pressure. To meet the 25% relative reduction target in hypertension prevalence by 2025, India must enhance treatment access and public health initiatives. A global report underscores the urgency of preventing, detecting, and managing hypertension, especially in low- and middle-income countries like India, where 188.3 million adults are estimated to have hypertension. Loss to follow-up persists in both communicable and non-communicable diseases, driven by factors such as stigma and socioeconomic barriers. Community outreach programs have proven effective, incorporating mobile health interventions, community health worker engagement, and door-to-door screenings. Hypertension management faces similar challenges, with community outreach tailored to lifestyle factors and cultural beliefs showing promise. The comprehensive strategy to control hypertension involves strengthening primary healthcare centers, promoting wellness centers, and capacitating Community Health Officers. While community-led, tech-enabled private sector interventions can screen and manage NCDs, integration with the public health system is crucial for widespread adoption and cost-effectiveness. In conclusion, tailored strategies, such as community outreach integrated into healthcare systems, are essential to address loss to follow-up and enhance health management success in both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Abstract A052: Perspectives of African immigrants on community health needs and clinical trials

Abstract INTRODUCTION In the past decade, Jacksonville, Florida has seen an increase in African immigrants. However, little is known about their health needs and perspectives related to community health and clinical trials. The Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center (MCCCC) Community Outreach and Engagement (COE) Office and Programs partnered with multiple community-based organizations as part of the FL Community Engagement Alliance Against COVID-19 to hold a series of focus groups with African immigrants to better understand their perspectives surroudning these determinants. METHODS This was a qualitative study with African immigrants residing in Jacksonville, Florida. Data was collected by community partner, Jocelyn Turner Consulting, who has led multiple community-based studies in Florida. Recruitment was in partnership with African businesses and churches. Using a guide developed by MCCCC COE, three focus groups were held to explore African immigrants’ 1) general experiences, 2) access to social services, 3) perspective of community health and diseases, 4) access and use of healthcare services, 5) knowledge and participation in clinical trials, and 6) appropriate strategies for providing community education and enhancing participation in research studies. RESULTS 24 participants participated in the focus groups. 83% had recently immigrated from Africa (Democratic of the Congo, Benin, Ghana, Sudan, Mali, Nigeria, Ethiopia, and Nigeria). The remaining 17% recently immigrated from Haiti or came to the US as a baby. Participants reported suprise to the proliferation of chronic diseases, such as increased cancer diagnoses of those who immigrated to the United States. Most participants associated this with the Western sedentary lifestyle, dietary habits, and lack of access to fresh food. Participants connected to refugee organizations reported knowledge of the ability to access health education resources and mental/physical care services, but those not connected with similar organizations expressed limited knowledge about access. Similarly, participants with no connection to refugee organizations reported not knowing where to access healthcare services and not seeking services until home remedies had failed. Only 33% of participants reported knowledge of clinical trials and all reported mistrust of research. Many of the participants expressed a need for health-related information upon arrival in the United States. CONCLUSION There is currently little infrastructure in place to support African immigrants in Jacksonville, Florida, which can contribute to cancer health disparities in this population. Strong community engagement is needed to partner with African immigrant communities to address culturally specific needs identified of this underrepresented population. The needs expressed by participants include information on physical activity, nutrition, and healthcare/clinical trials. A strong partnership with African immigrant communities has the potential to address cancer disparities and increase both trust and participation in clinical trials. Citation Format: Jocelyn Turner, Laureen Husband, Jessica Otero, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Parisa Fathi, Jennifer Crook, Folakemi Odedina. Perspectives of African immigrants on community health needs and clinical trials [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A052.

Abstract A040: Examining the geographical distribution of a colorectal cancer awareness community outreach program

Abstract Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant health issue in the United States, ranking as the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The incidence of CRC varies across the east coast of the United States due to multiple factors, including disparities in lifestyle, healthcare accessibility, and environmental exposures. Community-based participatory research plays a vital role in identifying effective interventions to enhance awareness of cancer risk and prevention in specific communities. Methods: This study focused on Asian Americans, Blacks, and Hispanics residing in the Greater Philadelphia (PA), New Jersey (NJ), and New York City (NYC) areas. The Synergistic Partnership for Enhancing Equity in Cancer Health (SPEECH) collaborated with community-based organizations' leaders and staff to streamline recruitment, workshop delivery, and survey data collection. The workshop curriculum covered essential CRC information, including facts, dietary habits, and screening guidelines. Pre- and post-workshop surveys were used to assess changes in CRC knowledge and screening intention. The distribution of participants was analyzed using Arc GIS. Results: [GXM1] The study population consisted of 212 Asian, 172 Hispanic/Latino, and 126 African American/Black participants. Geographical data was obtainable for 486 participants, primarily from New York (n=286, 58.8%), Pennsylvania (n=150, 30.9%), and New Jersey (n=49, 10.1%). These states form the Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York City (PNN) region, which is known for its high concentrations of neighborhoods experiencing persistent poverty, especially in areas densely populated by minorities. Distinct examples include neighborhoods within the Bronx borough of New York City and Philadelphia County in Pennsylvania. Alarmingly, in some counties within the PNN region, as many as 26% of the census tracts are categorized as persistently impoverished. This pattern of concentrated poverty is supported by several existing studies and research reports. Conclusions: The distribution of participants aligned with the study area of SPEECH and areas characterized by persistent poverty. These findings provide valuable insights to guide efforts in improving cancer health equity in the identified regions. Citation Format: Thoin F. Begum, Ellen Kim, Lin Zhu, Yin Tan, Evelyn T. González, Marilyn A. Fraser, Yingzhang Lin, Nathaly Rubio-Torio, Tenya Blackwell, Carolyn Martin, Safa Ibrahim, Ming-Chin Yeh, Grace X. Ma. Examining the geographical distribution of a colorectal cancer awareness community outreach program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A040.

Abstract C115: Framework for a community-based multiple myeloma screening program

Abstract Purpose: We develop a framework for a community-based screening program for multiple myeloma (MM). MM is known to be twice as common in Black/African American (B/AA) persons compared to white persons and B/AA patients have a higher risk of delay in initial treatment compared to white patients. Therefore, we developed a community-wide screening program for B/AA persons 50 years and older. As the first of these programs, we reveal an organizational framework that prioritizes engagement with key community partners who address barriers to cancer screening. Experimental Procedures: We expand organizational development knowledge about how to implement community-based MM screening and address barriers. The study uses an iterative and qualitative continuous improvement process. The study draws on literature review and multi-disciplinary team collaboration among clinicians, researchers, administrators, and the Cleveland Clinic Community Outreach Program (Cleveland Outreach). Data Summary: Our framework includes three interrelated partners and each address barriers to MM screening: 1) Cleveland Clinic Cancer Center. The multi-disciplinary team designs an educational brochure, secures pilot grant funding, plans for insurance/financial assistance as needed, develops care algorithms, and evaluates the impact of the program. Cleveland Outreach, a department within the Cancer Center, uses the Harold Freeman model as its foundational approach, which includes patient navigators and community outreach managers who are culturally/linguistically matched to medically underserved communities. The Cancer Center addresses barriers including program implementation despite a lack of national screening guidelines, insurance/financial barriers, and patient navigation to address fears and health literacy. 2) Faith-based organizations. Church leaders committed to cancer prevention participate in Cleveland Outreach’s faith-based outreach model. Faith-based partners address barriers of trust and fear. Also, by providing space at churches for on-site screening blood draws, they address transportation barriers. 3) Clinicians at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC’s). Providers and nurses at FQHC’s receive a Continuing Medical Education program about MM screening designed/funded by the Cancer Center. From within the community, providers notify medically underserved patients about the screening. With their primary care patient population, FQHC partners address barriers such as trust, health literacy, and fear of blood draws. They facilitate on-site screening at FQHC’s and health fairs, which addresses transportation barriers. Conclusions: Given that there are no universal guidelines for MM screening, we develop a novel approach to early disease detection in B/AA patients. Our framework is a partnership between the Cancer Center, faith-based organizations, and FQHC’s. Collaboratively, we address barriers to screening including fear, trust, insurance/financial, health literacy, transportation, and patient navigation if abnormal results suggest the need for further testing. Citation Format: Heather McKee Hurwitz, Kimberly Bell, Diana Basali, Raymond D. Jackson II, Jason Valent. Framework for a community-based multiple myeloma screening program [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr C115.

Fostering culinary diversification, food hygiene, and sanitation: A community outreach initiative for MSMEs

This paper highlights a community outreach program aimed at promoting culinary diversification, enhancing food hygiene, and fostering sanitation practices among Culinary Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Serdang Wetan Village under BUMDES (Village-owned enterprise) Serdang Tirta Kencana, Tangerang, Indonesia. The primary objective of the outreach activities was to empower MSMEs with knowledge and skills to diversify their culinary offerings while ensuring compliance with essential food safety standards and sanitation guidelines. Through a cooking workshop and interactive demonstrations, participating MSMEs were introduced to new recipes, cooking techniques, and ingredient combinations that would enhance their menu options. The program also strongly emphasized food hygiene and sanitation practices to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses and uphold public health standards. Participants received comprehensive training on proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques, emphasizing maintaining a clean and hygienic environment within their establishments. Overall, this program underscores the significance of community-driven initiatives in bolstering culinary diversification, food hygiene, and sanitation for MSMEs. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, this outreach program holds the potential to promote sustainable development and elevate the food industry in Serdang Wetan Village while ensuring the health and well-being of its residents and visitors alike.

Incorporating Shelter Dogs in On-Campus Animal-Assisted Interventions

Abstract To support the well-being of students, animal-assisted interventions (AAI) have been introduced on school campuses across North America; however, it has yet to be explored how incorporating non-therapy animals, such as shelter dogs, in these settings can be used to support their welfare alongside students. As shelter dogs have been shown to benefit from brief human interaction, we assessed the use of an on-campus AAI using a novel, shelter dog socialization intervention. Unstructured, 30-min interactions occurred between students and shelter dogs to explore how the shelter dog’s behavior changed across the interaction. The long-term goal is for these interactions between shelter dogs and students to become an established university and community outreach program that is routinely offered to concurrently support student well-being and shelter dog welfare and adoption success. Information © The Authors 2023

Adherence to antiseizure medications in an underserved population with epilepsy

Background and purposeAntiseizure medications (ASM) effectively prevent seizures in about 70% of adult epilepsy patients, but nonadherence to medication is the primary cause of breakthrough seizures, accounting for 26% to 79% of cases. Factors such as age, education, dosing frequency, forgetfulness, fear of side effects, and socioeconomic status contribute to poor adherence, especially among underserved populations. This study aimed to assess medication adherence during routine follow-up visits and identify the role of education in reducing non adherence in an underserved patient population. MethodsThe study involved a retrospective chart review of adult epilepsy patients seen at the University of Illinois Hospital between December 2016 and April 2020. Data on patient demographics, epilepsy and seizure classification, medication details, emergency visits, and adherence were collected from electronic medical records using the RedCap system. Descriptive statistics and statistical tests were conducted using STATA 17.0 for data analysis, including chi-squared analysis for categorical data and t-tests for continuous data. ResultsThe study enrolled a total of 286 adult epilepsy patients who met the eligibility criteria. Among them, 111 patients (38.81 %) were classified as nonadherent based on ASM levels. Caucasian/white race and income > $50,000 per year, were significantly associated with adherence (p = 0.009 and p = 0.006 respectively). Moreover, patients with weekly seizures were more likely to be adherent (p = 0.042). No significant differences were found regarding medication adherence and sex, education, employment, epilepsy type, age at diagnosis, seizure type or number of current ASM medications. Even though not significant, a trend towards college educated patients being more adherent was observed (70.37 %). Of self-reported adherent patients, 33.33 % were found to be nonadherent based on ASM levels. Nurse phone calls reminding 70 non adherent patients about adherence increased the chances of becoming adherent by 80.39 %. Finally, although not statistically significant, the majority of adherent patients had no history of hospitalizations for breakthrough seizures (73.89 %). ConclusionMore than a third of our patients were found to be non-adherent during routine follow-up visits. Lower socio-economic status and lower education were associated with increased chances of being non adherent. Rates of adherence were improved by nurse’s phone calls discussing the importance of adherence and risks of SUDEP. The findings emphasize the importance of education in improving medication adherence among these populations, suggesting the need for social interventions, community outreach programs, and targeted educational initiatives.

Experiences and lessons learned from community-engaged recruitment for the South Asian breast cancer study in New Jersey during the COVID-19 pandemic.

South Asians are a rapidly growing population in the United States. Breast cancer is a major concern among South Asian American women, who are an understudied population. We established the South Asian Breast Cancer (SABCa) study in New Jersey during early 2020 to gain insights into their breast cancer-related health attitudes. Shortly after we started planning for the study, the COVID-19 disease spread throughout the world. In this paper, we describe our experiences and lessons learned from recruiting study participants by partnering with New Jersey's community organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. We used a cross-sectional design. We contacted 12 community organizations and 7 (58%) disseminated our study information. However, these organizations became considerably busy with pandemic-related needs. Therefore, we had to pivot to alternative recruitment strategies through community radio, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey's Community Outreach and Engagement Program, and Rutgers Cooperative Extension's community health programs. We recruited participants through these alternative strategies, obtained written informed consent, and collected demographic information using a structured survey. Twenty five women expressed interest in the study, of which 22 (88%) participated. Nine (41%) participants learned about the study through the radio, 5 (23%) through these participants, 1 (4.5%) through a non-radio community organization, and 7 (32%) through community health programs. Two (9%) participants heard about the study from their spouse. All participants were born outside the US, their average age was 52.4 years (range: 39-72 years), and they have lived in the US for an average of 26 years (range: 5-51 years). Pivoting to alternative strategies were crucial for successful recruitment. Findings suggest the significant potential of broadcast media for community-based recruitment. Family dynamics and the community's trust in our partners also encouraged participation. Such strategies must be considered when working with understudied populations.

The impact of cybercrime on students' social relationships amid COVID-19: A Ha'il University study

This study examines the profound impact of cybercrime on the social dynamics of students at Ha'il University in Saudi Arabia during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a carefully crafted and validated questionnaire and data collected from 110 participants, the study reveals nuanced shifts in relationships involving peers, instructors, and especially family members. The importance of understanding these shifts is underscored by the global increase in cyber activity during lockdowns. The findings reveal a pronounced and disturbing impact of cybercrime on family ties. Although the overall gender-based findings were mostly the same, female students showed a higher level of awareness in family-centered situations. This suggests that there are deeper implications for this group and points to the subtleties in society that may be influencing these views. In response to these troubling findings, the study presents a comprehensive set of recommendations. These include raising awareness of cybercrime among students and the wider community, pushing for the introduction of holistic policies and regulations against such crimes, and the essential embedding of cybercrime education within academic curricula. It also emphasizes the paramount need for robust support structures for victims, underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to combating the threat of cybercrime. The implementation of these strategies aims not only to curate a safer digital landscape but also to mitigate the ever-increasing detrimental effects of cybercrime on interpersonal relationships. The robust sample size coupled with meticulous methodology enhances the credibility and applicability of these findings, making this study a central reference point for future research efforts, policy formulation, educational strategies, and community outreach programs in an increasingly digital age.

Dermacure – An Advanced Skin Disease Detection using Deep Learning Algorithm

Skin diseases are common and can cause discomfort, pain, and even disfigurement if left untreated. Unfortunately, many people do not seek treatment due to a lack of knowledge about them. To address this issue, raising awareness and providing access to resources are essential. Recent advances in deep learning techniques have shown promising results in detecting skin diseases from images. Combining this technology with a user-friendly application can help to provide preliminary diagnosis and connect patients with qualified dermatologists for in-person or remote consultation. The proposed application will allow users to upload images of their skin ailments and receive an immediate diagnosis using deep learning techniques. The application will be equipped with a user-friendly interface and will be capable of detecting any type of skin disease such as allergies, viral infections, cancer, etc. Once the diagnosis is made, the application will then integrate the patient with a qualified dermatologist for further consultation. The application will provide various options for the patient to connect with the doctor, including call, chat or appointment scheduling. The doctor will have access to the patient's medical history and images of their skin condition, enabling them to make an informed diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment. In addition, a fundraising campaign will be conducted for patients who require financial assistance for their treatment. Public health campaigns and community outreach programs can also help to increase awareness about skin diseases and encourage people to seek treatment when necessary. By doing so, we can improve the overall health and well-being of our communities

Toward a Socioeconomic Equity in Combating Adolescent Substance Abuse: An Outreach and Drop-In Centre to Bridge the Gap.

This paper describes a case study of an Outreach and Drop-in Centre (ODIC) established under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India. In the quantitative part, data were gathered from the ODIC office documents and analysed using MS Excel. Linear regression analysis demonstrated a relationship between the number of in-centre clients and the number of Community Outreach Programmes (COPs). Similarly, this study examined the relationship between the number of networks established and the number of participants in COPs. Hence, two regression lines were derived accordingly. In addition, qualitative data collected through key informant interviews corroborated the quantitative results. This case study highlights the importance of networks and COPs in increasing the reach of ODIC and ensuring the quality of services. Finally, in partnership with other government agencies, this ODIC sets a model for engaging marginalised adolescents in reducing substance abuse.

Literasi Pemanfaatan dan Pencegahan Efek Radiasi pada Masyarakat Lansia di Lingkungan Kecamatan Trawas Kabupaten Mojokerto

Radiation can originate from various natural and artificial sources. Ionizing radiation can impact individual health because ionization events can result in DNA damage, cell death, and harm to tissues and organs. The elderly is one of the vulnerable groups that should receive more attention regarding their health conditions. Aging is a natural phase in the human life cycle that significantly affects various aspects of life, including health and quality of life. The quality of life in the elderly can be influenced by their well-being, emotions, physical health, occupation, cognitive abilities, and social life. In connection with the radiation phenomenon that can have serious implications for the health and quality of life of individuals, including the more vulnerable elderly population, adequate knowledge about safe radiation utilization and a detailed understanding of radiation's effects and prevention become essential in maintaining their health and improving their quality of life. Community outreach activities were conducted in the form of educational seminars with the aim of increasing the elderly community's literacy regarding the effects and utilization of radiation in the Trawas District, Mojokerto Regency, over a duration of one day. It is worth noting that the Trawas District, Mojokerto Regency, has experienced an increase in its elderly population over the past few years. The results of this community outreach program have shown a positive overall progress, with an increase in participants' self-confidence in understanding the provided material and an improvement in their knowledge regarding the utilization and prevention of radiation effects. This improvement is demonstrated by the significant difference between pre-test scores (mean value: 22.82) and post-test scores (mean value: 80.82), as assessed through a statistically significant paired T-test (t value: 35,537 with p<0.001) and Wilcoxon signed-rank test (p<0.001).

Community-Based Diabetes Awareness Strategy With Detection and Intervention: The Mobile Diabetes Education Center.

To prevent diabetes and increase equitable access to health care screenings, Touro University California has created and implemented a community outreach program called the Mobile Diabetes Education Center (MOBEC). This program is a joint effort that also involves Sutter Health, the California Department of Public Health, Kaiser Permanente, the Solano County Department of Public Health, and community-based organizations, focusing on advancing health equity in Solano County's at-risk populations. This article reports on the services and initial successes of MOBEC. With its strong community collaboration, MOBEC has helped to raise awareness of diabetes and ensure access to much-needed health screenings and education. This model can potentially be used as a blueprint for similar efforts nationwide to address the health care needs of medically underserved communities.

The Impact of Inadequate Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients at the Diabetic Clinic of Hoima Regional Referral Hospital in Hoima City

Per the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) Global Report on Diabetes, the prevalence of diabetes and associated risk factors has been on a steady rise, currently standing at 2.7% for males and 3.0% for females. Overweight individuals make up about 18.6% of adults, while the obese account for 3.9%. This particular study conducted at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital focused on assessing the prevalence of inadequate glycemic control and the factors contributing to this issue among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients. Employing a descriptive, cross-sectional design utilizing quantitative data collection and analysis methods, the study captured the opinions and perceptions of a considerable number of Type 2 diabetic patients attending the hospital's diabetic clinic at a specific moment, allowing for broader generalizations. The study uncovered that poor glycemic control among Type 2 diabetic patients led to various complications, notably cardiovascular issues (56%), diabetic neuropathy (50%), diabetic nephropathy (33%), diabetic retinopathy (25%), and infections (21%). Specifically, cardiovascular complications were more prevalent among patients with a family history of diabetes, hypertension, high BMI, and those categorized as overweight. Additionally, patients over the age of 60, highly educated individuals, married persons, and professionals exhibited higher instances of cardiovascular complications due to poor glycemic control. The study recommended hospital management to dedicate time for educating patients on managing their conditions beyond medication intake, addressing factors hindering good glycemic control. Furthermore, the study suggested strategies such as community outreach programs and routine screening for Diabetes Mellitus among hypertensive patients to facilitate early detection of non-communicable diseases. Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Overweight, Obesity, Cardiovascular diseases, Glycemic control.

Effect of an Oncology Focused High School Outreach Event in Increasing Interest in Cancer Care and Healthcare Careers.

Despite widely heralded efforts to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in oncology, few outreach programs exist to inspire high school students to pursue a career in medicine. Doctors' Day is an event developed and organized by medical trainees that features both didactic and hands-on learning components to provide high school students with exposure to the healthcare field and knowledge about cancer and cancer screening. We investigated in the influence of Doctors' Day on students' interest in healthcare careers and oncology. On March 30, 2023, health professions students and residents organized and led Doctors' Day, a half-day educational program for eight public high schools in Nashville, TN. After the event, high school student participants were invited to complete a 21-item survey. The questionnaire collected demographic information, feedback regarding the session, and comfort with various activities related to the program. Among the 8 public high schools involved in Doctors' Day, 91 participants completed the survey. Few (9, 9.9%) participants were White or European American, and 30 (33.0%) and 23 (25.3%) were Black and Hispanic, respectively. There were 20 (22.0%) participants who identified as LGBTQI+ with 2 (2.2%) indicating they were unsure. Feedback regarding the program was positive across all domains, and students reported increased interest in healthcare careers and oncology along with an increased comfort level in describing the importance of cancer screening. Our community outreach program for high school students with backgrounds underrepresented in medicine was effective in increasing interest in healthcare careers and oncology.

Identification of Contingents at Risk of Natural Focal Diseases in Vietnam Using a Questionnaire-Based Survey

Introduction: Natural focal and zoonotic diseases are widespread in the Asia-Pacific Region, including Vietnam, due to climatic conditions, peculiarities of cultural and economic interactions. Objective: To determine groups of population at risk of rodent and their ectoparasites-borne diseases in different landscape and socio-economic areas of Vietnam. Materials and methods: We conducted a questionnaire-based survey of 449 rural residents from eight provinces in the north and central part of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The answers were analyzed using statistical and epidemiological methods. Results: We have established that 346 respondents (77.1 %) come into contact with rodents, and five times more often this contact occurs in residential premises. A small number of the respondents reports flea (2.9 %) and tick (7.6 %) attacks. Only 30.7 % of the respondents (n = 138) know that contact with rodents can lead to disease, 69.3 % (n = 311) have heard about it for the first time. At the same time, 69.7 % of residents carry out rat control activities using various means while 30.3 % do nothing in this respect. If signs of a disease appear, 81.7 % of the respondents report seeking medical care, 9.4 % do that rarely, and 8.9 % have never sought medical attention. Conclusions: Given the abundance of the main carriers and vectors of natural focal diseases, frequent direct contact of people with potentially infected rodents, poor alertness and awareness of the population, there is a high risk of infestation in case of an epizooty in the surveyed provinces. The most effective and affordable preventive tool is a targeted community outreach program.

Bringing Health Care Equity to Diverse and Underserved Populations in Sleep Medicine and Research Through a Digital Health Equity Framework.

Individuals from minoritized groups are less likely to receive sleep medicine care and be the focus of sleep research. Several barriers may explain under-representation and low participation. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted a digital divide that exacerbated disproportionate sleep health outcomes and access to sleep medicine and research opportunities among minoritized groups. The authors' team developed a digital health equity and inclusion model and revamped its culturally-tailored community outreach program to advance sleep health equity among minoritized groups. This article describes how the authors implemented their digital sleep health equity and inclusion model during the COVID-19 pandemic.