ASPHN Annual Meeting

ASPHN

This year’s ASPHN Annual Meeting theme — TRUST. LISTEN. BUILD. — stems from a presentation about the future of public health nutrition given by our Association’s Executive Director at last year’s Annual Meeting. These motivational words are the foundation of a collaborative, strong and successful future, which starts now! Please join us from June 11 – 13 for powerful and inspiring sessions, professional development opportunities and updates from federal partners MCHB, CDC-DNPAO and USDA.

Back by popular demand are our Annual Meeting Poster Sessions. This year, we’ll be using this virtual poster session platform to view and interact with the posters and presenters. A few of the posters will be selected for presentation during breakfast on Monday and Tuesday. Presenters may be in the room or join the conversation remotely.

More info: https://asphn.org/2023-annual-meeting

Filter displayed posters (66 keywords)

student 14 Student 3 Pregnancy 2 Public Health 2 Title V 2 WIC 2 evaluation 2 food security 2 show more… African Americans 1 Agriculture 1 American Men’s Internet Survey. 1 Asset Based Messages 1 Behavior Change 1 COVID-19 1 Cardiovascular disease 1 Counseling 1 ECE Nutrition 1 Early Care and Education 1 Evaluation 1 Farm Bill 1 Farm to ECE 1 Food access 1 Fruit and vegetable consumption 1 Gardening 1 Go NAPSACC 1 HIV 1 HIV testing 1 HIV/AIDS 1 Health Departments 1 Health Disparities 1 Health Equity 1 MCH Nutrition 1 Maternal mortality 1 Men that have sex with Men 1 Mississippi 1 Monkeypox 1 Nutrition 1 Nutrition Counselling 1 Nutrition education 1 Obesity 1 PSE 1 Policy Brief 1 Positive Deviance 1 SWAP 1 Title 1 Tribal Health 1 Weight-Inclusive 1 breastfeeding 1 cooking skills classes 1 eating competence 1 eating habits 1 elementary-age children 1 food and nutrition insecurity 1 home vegetable gardening 1 lactation 1 low income families 1 mental health 1 nutrition integration 1 physical activity 1 poverty 1 public health 1 racial minorities 1 research 1 survey 1 underserved 1 vaccine 1

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Show or hide this track Policy and Advocacy Back to top ↑

Minority Serving Institution Program on HIV/AIDS 95:95:95 target by 2035: Access to Vaccines for Poverty Eradication

Anthony Uchenna Emeribe

Abstract: Background: The HIV/AIDS epidemic consistently impacts disease and socioeconomic burdens, especially on racial minorities and impoverished communities. Problem Statement: In urban poverty tracts, HIV prevalence rates inversely associate with annual household income, implying the lower the household income, the higher the HIV prevalence rate. Besides the yearly household income, all other metrics of socioeconomic status (e.g., education, poverty level, homeless status, and employment status) have an inverse relationship with HIV prevalence. Non-Hispanic Blacks (1.7%) in the United States have an HIV prevalence rate that is over eight times the HIV prevalence rate for non-Hispanic Whites, while Hispanics (0.6%) have three times the HIV prevalence rate of non-Hispanic Whites (0.2%). Poverty is responsible for some racial-ethnic disparities associated with HIV prevalence rates, as 46% of non-Hispanic Blacks and 40% of Hispanics reside in poverty tracts compared to 10% of their non-Hispanic white counterparts. Recommendation: Prevention programs that involve a vaccine serve to control the viral load in most cases or eradicate the infectious disease burden in certain circumstances. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for preventing HIV/AIDS that is likely to induce a dramatic impact. All-inclusive approaches for preventing, screening, and managing HIV/AIDS beyond high-risk populations yield better outcomes. Policy Implication: Reversing the trend of the HIV epidemic will involve mixed techniques such as surgical, behavioral, and biomedical strategies for HIV prevention. Conclusion: A safe and efficient vaccine against HIV would significantly promote successful preventive interventions to control the HIV/AIDS epidemic and minimize the impact of poverty.
Presented by: Anthony Uchenna Emeribe <aneme1@morgan.edu>
Institution: Morgan State University, School of Community Health and Policy
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, vaccine, racial minorities, poverty

Food Security and Public Health Nutrition: The Importance of the Nutrition Title in the Agricultural Improvement Act

Hailey Astin Shelby Lewis

Abstract: ASPHN Policy Brief Abstract Hailey Lewis, BS Introduction The Farm Bill is significant legislation that authorizes and funds programs related to the agriculture industry. The Bill was first enacted in 1933 in response to the Great Depression and was created to provide financial assistance to farmers and establish policies to stabilize commodity prices and protect natural resources. Research The Bill is typically renewed every five years. The 2018 Farm Bill included several provision changes to Commodity Programs, Nutrition Programs, Conservation, Rural Development, Credit, Horticulture, Miscellaneous, and the Forestry title. My research for this policy brief included looking up the history of the Farm Bill, analyzing different position statements and top priorities for various organizations to identify common themes and guidance, and researching different reports and briefs surrounding recommendations for the 2023 Farm Bill. Policy Implications The Farm Bill provides funding for programs that address social and economic issues, promote sustainable practices, and ensure food security. The reauthorization of the 2023 Farm Bill - Title IV Nutrition Programs carries significant implications for food and nutrition security, health outcomes, and the economy in the United States. Recommendations The 2023 Farm Bill - Title IV Nutrition Program - Policy Recommendations aim to address some of the shortcomings of the current policy. The recommendations suggest improving SNAP access, integrity, and operations for participants and retailers, modernizing food distribution programs, and improving food and nutrition security for priority populations through other food and nutrition assistance programs. Conclusion The Farm Bill is a vital piece of legislation that plays an essential role in shaping the agriculture industry in the United States. The recommendations for the Farm Bill ensure that farmers, ranchers, processors, distributors, and consumers are all taken into account and provided funding for programs.
Presented by: Hailey Astin Shelby Lewis <hlewis18@vols.utk.edu>
Institution: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Department of Nutrition
Keywords: Policy Brief, Farm Bill, Agriculture, Nutrition, Title

Creating a Diverse Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Workforce to Improve Maternal and Child Health Indices: A Policy Brief.

Tamaraemumoemi Emmanuella Okoro

Abstract: Problem Statement: There is ample evidence that African Americans have the highest infant and maternal mortality rates across all racial and ethnic groups in the United States (U.S.). However, they are grossly underrepresented in the MCH workforce. Introduction: Well-funded HBCUs could provide community based participatory research to solve the racial disparities in maternal and infant outcomes that negatively impact African American communities and provide a diverse MCH workforce that equitably includes underrepresented minorities that look like the communities they serve Research: Latest data from the CDC shows that in the US, African Americans have the highest infant and maternal mortality rates at 10.38/1000 live births and 68.9/1000,000 live births, respectively, compared to the national average of 5.7/1,00 live births and 32.9/100,000 live births, respectively. One hundred and one historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are open and running in the U.S. However, only four HBCUs have accredited medical schools out of about one hundred and fifty-four accredited medical schools. Only one HBCU has a Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited school of public health out of the sixty CEPH-accredited schools of public health in the U.S. All thirteen Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB) Centers of Excellence in MCH Education, Science, and Practice in the US are in predominantly white universities. There is currently no school of midwifery at any HBCU. Over 90 percent of midwives in the U.S. are non-Hispanic white, with only 6.3 percent of certified nurse midwives identifying as non-Hispanic black (NHB) or African American and 11 percent of obstetricians and gynecologists identifying as NHB or African American. Policy Recommendations: 1)National Institute of Health funding should establish Centers of Excellence in MCH Education, Science, and Practice in HBCUs. 2)The federal and state governments should fund the establishment and maintenance of maternal and child health academic programs in Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including funding to establish schools of public health, schools of medicine, schools of midwifery, and increased doula training. 3)In the meantime, equitable access of HBCUs to federal grants for research programs should be instituted by waivers of specific policies, such as having a school of public health or school of midwifery before being considered for certain funding opportunities. Conclusion: The disproportionately high African American maternal and infant mortality rates call for a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable MCH workforce to serve in communities that look like them to improve MCH outcomes in their communities. HBCUs/PWIs are essential resources to produce a diverse MCH workforce through academic programming and community-based participatory research.
Presented by: Tamaraemumoemi Emmanuella Okoro <taoko1@morgan.edu>
Institution: Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Predominantly Black Institutions Alliance Team for Maternal, Child, And Family Health Equity Initiative (HAT), Maryland USA
Keywords: student

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 3:40 - 3:50 pm EDT

Tackling Maternal Mortality Disparity in Illinois State through Food Policies: Advocacy for Prenatal Obesity Prevention

Tolu Arowolo, MBBS, MPH, MSc; Adeola Animasahun, MBBS, MPH, Ph.D. ; George Smith, EDD, MPH; Yashika Watkins, Ph.D., MPH; Yvonne Bronner, ScD,

Abstract: Introduction: The rate of pre-pregnancy obesity among mothers is about 20% and it is associated with an increased risk for adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes including pre-eclampsia and pre-term delivery. Mothers with pre-pregnancy obesity are also at higher risk for developing hypertension and type 2 diabetes than mothers with normal weight before pregnancy.

Problem Statement: In 2021, the maternal mortality rate in the United States increased to 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births compared with a rate of 23.8 per 100,000 live births in 2020 and 20.1 per 100,000 live births in 2019. Non-Hispanic black women were disproportionately affected with a rate of 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births which was 2.6 times the rate for non-Hispanic white women. In Illinois state, despite contributing less than 20% of total state births, African American women are six times as likely to die of a pregnancy-related condition as non-Hispanic White women. Obesity has been documented to be associated with about 44% of pregnancy-related death in Illinois State

Recommendations: Research and urgent intervention to address the rising prevalence of pre-pregnancy obesity among women of reproductive age group in communities with high infant and maternal mortality are needed. Maternal and child health stakeholders should consider prioritizing advocacy and funding to address obesity among women of reproductive age groups in Illinois.

Research: Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and websites of Federal agencies, Illinois State, Cook County, and Chicago city public health agencies were searched for peer-reviewed publications and reports on maternal mortality and social determinants of health in Illinois and Chicago. An average of 75 Illinois women died while pregnant or within one year of pregnancy each year during 2008-2017. The highest number was recorded in 2017, which translated to a pregnancy-associated mortality rate (PAMR) of 49 deaths for every 100,000 live births in Illinois. Maternal obesity has been documented to be associated with about 44% of pregnancy-related death in Illinois.

Policy implications: Pursue advocacy and policy efforts to achieve accelerated pre-natal obesity prevalence reduction through mechanisms in which food policies affect diet. This includes providing an enabling environment for learning healthy food preferences, overcoming barriers to the expression of healthy food preferences, encouraging people to reassess existing unhealthy food preferences at the point of purchase, and stimulating a food-systems response. The integration of maternal nutritional counseling in adolescent health services, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the Healthy Start program is also advocated.

Conclusion: Pre-pregnancy obesity is a major contributing factor to the wide, persistent racial disparities in maternal mortality in the state of Illinois. There is a need for policymakers to encourage the enactment and implementation of food policies focusing on diet which can promote the prevention of obesity among women of reproductive age group. Specific examples include the provision of vegetables, a low-carb diet, and fruits for beneficiaries of WIC and SNAP programs.
Presented by: Tolu Arowolo <toaro1@morgan.edu>
Institution: Morgan State University School of Community Health and Policy
Keywords: Maternal mortality, Obesity, Health Equity

Show or hide this track Programs and Practice Back to top ↑

Poster: Healthy Habits Chef Challenge: A Six-Session Program Which Resulted in Significant Improvements in Nutrition Knowledge in Low Income Diverse Elementary-Age Children

Healthy Habits Chef Challenge: A Six-Session Program Which Resulted in Significant Improvements in Nutrition Knowledge in Low Income Diverse Elementary-Age Children

Abraya Johnson, RN,BSN, NCSN; M. Margaret Barth, MPH, PhD; Melissa Gutschall, RD, PhD; Dr. Kyle L. Thompson, DCN, RDN, LDN

Abstract: Plan: Children from low socioeconomic and diverse backgrounds are at a higher risk of increased BMI’s. One key to improving a child’s weight status is to implement a healthier diet. The purpose of this project was to study the effectiveness of hands-on nutrition and cooking lessons to improve children’s knowledge of healthful food choices and ability to practice food preparation skills.

Do: This project was conducted as a series of cooking classes for elementary school-aged children in a Boys’ and Girls’ Club in a community setting. The program met weekly for six weeks and used a pre-designed curriculum. Lessons included nutrition facts, hands-on kitchen safety and cooking skills, tastings to introduce new recipes and foods, and active games to reinforce learning. Data were collected through pre- and post-evaluations at the first and last sessions, and were analyzed using SPSS v. 27.

Study: Twenty-one 4th and 5th grade students participated in the project. Elementary-aged students showed significant knowledge improvements from pre- to post-intervention on benefits of fruits and vegetables (p = 0.016) and meal planning skills (p = 0.001). There was evidence of an intervention dose-response effect, with a significant difference in fruit and vegetable benefits knowledge between students attending 1-3 sessions and those attending 4 – 6 sessions (p = 0.005).

Act: Elementary-age students with adverse social determinants of health were able to learn nutrition knowledge and skills through hands on learning and active participation in cooking activities. The greatest challenge for this program was promoting consistent participation. Partnering with a program like Boys and Girls Club can assist in recruitment and retention, but the challenges persist.
Presented by: Abraya Johnson
Institution: Department of Nutrition and Health Care Management
Keywords: Nutrition education, cooking skills classes, elementary-age children

Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) Change Workforce Capacity Building To Support Local and Tribal Health Agencies in Wisconsin

Krista Nagel, Virginia Loehr MCHES, Amy Korth MS RDN, Amy Meinen MPH RDN, Tatiana Maida BA, Angela Flickinger MPH RDN

Abstract: Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, many nutrition and physical activity programs went on hold, facing staff and community partner turnover. This disruption exacerbated the need for efforts to support workforce capacity towards providing nutrition and physical activity opportunities for Wisconsin children and families.

The Wisconsin Title V Physical Activity and Nutrition (PAN) Workgroup was formed to develop strategies to build the workforce capacity of Local and Tribal Health Agencies (LTHAs) to support physical activity and nutrition opportunities. In a survey of community-based partners, 93% of respondents reported interest in training opportunities to increase their public health knowledge and skills around implementing policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes to reach nutrition and physical activity goals. These findings emphasized the need for and led to the development of a collaborative, peer learning model that provided support for LTHAs in Wisconsin that chose nutrition and physical activity as a core focus objective (out of 7 possible objectives).

Methods: The University of Minnesota Extension’s Systems Approaches for Healthy Communities (SAHC) course was used to enhance workforce capacity to implement nutrition and physical activity programming through skill building and peer-to-peer learning opportunities with LTHDs.

The Systems Course Learning Model was implemented in January 2022. The model included individual LTHA completion of the SAHC course with technical assistance from course coaches, followed by three peer learning calls to discuss and reflect on the course content, an individual learning call for each LTHA, and a final learning call to share strategies for implementation of the course content.

Evaluation: After each learning call, an evaluation survey was sent to participating LTHAs to gather both qualitative and quantitative feedback. Most survey respondents chose “somewhat agree” when responding to if they had “gained new knowledge or skills” as a result of the learning model and “knew how to apply what they learned to their work promoting optional nutrition and physical activity in their community” (n=13, 81%).

An identical evaluation survey was used to gauge participants’ understanding of community engagement before and after completing the SAHC course. There were significant increases in understanding seen after completion of the course, the biggest being in the ability to tell the difference between outreach and engagement.

One-on-one conversations with LTHAs and coaches were also used to gather participant feedback. Based on the feedback, several changes were made to the 2023 learning model, including -Shortening of the course completion timeframe from 12 months to 6 months -Implementation of one learning call per module in the SAHC course (from 3 calls to 5) -Strengthening the model’s emphasis on helping LTHAs implement what they learned in the course in their work through coaching -Allocation of more time during each learning call for networking and peer-to-peer sharing Upon completing the 2022 Systems Course Learning Model, only 10 out of 46 registered LTHA staff members completed all course modules. Multiple barriers to LTHA completion of the course and participation in the learning model were identified including: continued priorities with responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and increased staff turnover. Despite these barriers, 7 of 9 LTHAs selected the physical activity and nutrition objective again in 2023, along with 5 new LTHAs, showing strong interest in continuing the work.

Next Steps: The current 2023 learning model includes new LTHAs (1st Level) completing the SAHC course, along with check-in calls with the continuing communities (2nd Level) that finished the course in 2022. Joint sessions have also been included which combine the 1st and 2nd level communities to facilitate deeper discussions and peer-to-peer learning.

A goal of the 2023 model has been to facilitate individualized coaching calls with LTHAs, (including those continuing from 2022), and provide technical assistance to support their PSE change strategies in their respective communities.

Throughout the second year (2023) of the learning model, feedback and ideas will be documented to continue an iterative process for continuous improvements into 2024 and solidify the learning model for use in future years.
Presented by: Krista Nagel <nagel129@umn.edu>
Institution: Wisconsin Title V-Maternal and Child Health and healthTIDE, Children’s Healthy Weight State Capacity Building Program
Keywords: Public Health, Tribal Health, Health Departments, PSE

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 12:50 - 1:00 pm EDT

Increasing Access To Local Foods In Michigan Early Care and Education settings

Maria Distler & Mary Neumaier

Abstract: Proper nutrition, including fruit and vegetable consumption, is important for optimal growth, development, and overall child health. The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) is a long-time provider of NAPSACC and Go NAPSACC, a direct education and PSE change intervention designed to enhance nutrition and physical activity practices in early care and education (ECE) settings. Go NAPSACC interventions support farm to ECE practices.

By utilizing Go NAPSACC and funding through ASPHN’s Capacity Building Grant (CABBAGE), the NKFM is working to increase access to local foods in Michigan early care and education settings. Through partner engagement, resources, trainings, networking, and custom technical assistance over three years, ECE providers are successfully and confidently increasing exposure to local produce, health education, and hands on learning for young children. In this presentation, the NKFM will demonstrate how CABBAGE funding has provided opportunities for ECEs in Western Wayne County of Michigan to engage in the farm to ECE Go NAPSACC modules, create gardens, move in a direction of food sovereignty, and work with knowledgeable, local partners regarding food systems.
Presented by: Maria Distler & Mary Neumaier <mdistler@nkfm.org>
Institution: National Kidney Foundation of MI
Keywords: Farm to ECE, Early Care and Education, ECE Nutrition, Go NAPSACC, Gardening

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 12:40 - 12:50 pm EDT

Assessing Knowledge and Confidence Related to Prediabetes/Diabetes Education of Community Health Navigators in Michigan

Rachel Bessire

Abstract: Learning Outcomes • Describe a training for community health navigators in communities of color • Understand the need to educate community health navigators about the prevalence and prevention of diabetes and prediabetes • Address knowledge disparities regarding prediabetes/diabetes Methods Sixteen community health navigators (CHNs) representing African, Middle Eastern, and Asian ethnic groups attended a diabetes education virtual training. They completed surveys before and after the webinar training through an online survey consisting of 23 knowledge-based questions and eight Likert-scale questions related to their confidence in assisting their clients with diabetes-related concerns. Results The participants answered correctly on majority of knowledge questions about food composition (81.25-87.5%). Only three CHNs (18.75%) correctly answered the question about the effect of juice on blood glucose in the pre-test and only one CHN correctly answered this question on the post-test. Overall, results showed that additional education is needed on methods for home glucose testing and what factors impact blood glucose levels. The CHNs improved their confidence in the following items: finding positive ways to cope with prediabetes/diabetes related stress (37.5% agree pre-test vs. 62.5% post-test); helping clients find ways to feel better (31.3% agree pre-test vs. 62.5% post-test); and knowing enough to help their client make prediabetes/diabetes care choices that are right for them (31.3% agree pre-test vs. 62.5% post-test). Conclusions Community health navigators play an important role in diabetes education for communities of color. Based on the results of our study, there is a knowledge disparity and lack of resources regarding prediabetes and diabetes that must be addressed so CHNs feel confident and equipped to educate their communities.
Presented by: Rachel Bessire <rbessire@emich.edu>
Institution: Eastern Michigan University, Center for Health Disparities Innovations and Studies
Keywords

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 12:20 - 12:30 pm EDT

Oregon’s Building State Capacity for Nutrition Integration Program

Robin Stanton

Abstract: Oregon has focused on workforce development and data evaluation for the ASPHN Children’s Healthy Weight nutrition integration project. Nutrition competency and capacity has been addressed through increased state FTE, developed and strengthened numerous partnerships, and deepened nutrition integration strategies within state Title V priorities, primarily focused on lactation and food security strategies. Lactation strategies have focused on implementation of policy, system and environmental change for lactation support across Oregon. Data evaluation has focused on conducting a program evaluation of local grantee experiences implementing breastfeeding and food insecurity Title V priorities for five years. Themes identified were incorporated into the Title V strategic planning session for grantee technical assistance and support.
Presented by: Robin Stanton <robin.w.stanton@oha.oregon.gov>
Institution: Public Health Division
Keywords: Title V, nutrition integration, lactation, food security

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 3:10 - 3:20 pm EDT

Children’s Healthy Weight State Capacity Building Program – Integrating Nutrition into MCH Programs

Sandy Perkins

Abstract: Nutrition is a critical part of maternal and child health (MCH) and development. Improving the capacity of states to incorporate evidence-informed nutrition services to the MCH population could lead to an improved nutrition status of mothers and children and, along with other positive health outcomes, a decrease in obesity prevalence among children. In 2020, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau’s (MCHB) Division of Workforce Development awarded the Association of State Public Health Nutritionists (ASPHN) a 5-year Cooperative Agreement to establish the Children’s Healthy Weight State Capacity Building Program (CHW- SCBP). The specific objective of the CHW-SCBP is to develop three state models in MCH nutrition integration, which could then be implemented and replicated in other states. These state models focus on (1) increasing the MCH nutrition competency of the state Title V workforce, and (2) optimizing MCH nutrition-related data sources to contribute to data-driven programs and activities related to assessment, policy development, and assurance. For the past 2 years, ASPHN has been working with Title V teams from North Dakota, Oregon, and Wisconsin to develop three state models to strengthen, align, and coordinate current nutrition programs, services, and resources to build and expand capacity around MCH nutrition. The poster provides an overview of ASPHN support, and highlights of the state team work.
Presented by: Sandy Perkins <sandy@ASPHN.org>
Institution: ASPHN
Keywords

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 12:10 - 12:20 pm EDT

Amplifying Breastfeeding Mothers' Voices through Digital Storytelling

Sarah Lisson

Abstract: The Knox County Health Department (KCHD) received a grant from the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) to implement recommendations from the Blueprint: Continuity of Care in Breastfeeding Support. KCHD decided to offer digital storytelling workshops as a way to empower breastfeeding mothers in Knox County to share their stories and identify gaps in our local lactation care system. The stories shared in these workshops provide additional context to the limited body of existing local breastfeeding data. Workshop participants (n=11) described feeling accomplished, empowered, and less alone after sharing their stories. With participants' permission, KCHD plans to share the stories with other community stakeholders to inform the development of a community breastfeeding workplan.
Presented by: Sarah Lisson <sarah.lisson@knoxcounty.org>
Institution: Knox County Health Department
Keywords

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 3:20 - 3:30 pm EDT Watch Presentation

Navigating the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Mental Health: Effective Strategies for Prevention and Recovery

Sharmistha Roy, MBBS, MPH, MPH, CHES

Abstract: "Navigating the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Mental Health: Effective Strategies for Prevention and Recovery"

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) impact people both physically and mentally. ACEs have extensive negative mental health outcomes, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. The prevention and intervention efforts can help promote positive mental health outcomes and resilience. After the comprehensive search of the relevant research paper, 50 current research were selected that met our inclusion criteria on the effectiveness of prevention and intervention strategies aimed at reducing the negative impact of ACEs on mental health. We will provide an overview of the ACEs framework and the importance of addressing ACEs as a public health issue. The poster will also highlight the intervention strategies that are aimed at mitigating ACEs, for instance, early childhood education programs, public education campaigns, high-quality childcare, social-emotional learning, parenting skills, and training that can reduce the risk of developing mental health problems and promote positive mental health outcomes. In addition, the poster will propose preventative strategies and interventions that focus on promoting resilience, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based interventions, which can help individuals cope with the effects of ACEs that will be useful for public health practitioners, clinicians, and policymakers.
Presented by: Sharmistha Roy <sharmi@nmsu.edu>
Institution: ASPHN
Keywords: student

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 3:00 - 3:10 pm EDT

Monkeypox During Pregnancy: Risks, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies

Sharmistha Roy, MBBS, MPH, MPH, CHES

Abstract: Title- Monkeypox During Pregnancy: Risks, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies

Monkeypox, a zoonotic disease caused by a double-stranded DNA virus called the Monkeypox virus can be transmitted either from human to human or animal to human and poses severe complications to vulnerable populations including pregnant women. Now it is considered a deadlier pathogen due to its continuously changing epidemiology and rapid transmission. WHO declared Monkeypox a global health emergency on July 2022. Over 84,000 infections and 74 deaths have been reported globally since 31 December 2022.

According to CDC (2023), this virus can be transmitted to the fetus during pregnancy or to the newborn and causes adverse pregnancy outcomes. In cases of confirmed Monkeypox infection during pregnancy, spontaneous pregnancy loss, Preterm delivery, stillbirth, and neonatal Monkeypox infections have been reported. A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted, and 30 studies were included in the review. The results indicated that individuals with Monkeypox infection experienced negative pregnancy outcomes, such as a history of miscarriages in the first trimester and fetal death in the early week of gestation and a premature infant born, and spontaneous pregnancy loss.

This research aims to convey together all the updated information regarding the Monkeypox virus transmission, diseases, and associated maternal-fetal consequences. Moreover, to successfully face this challenging infection by obstetricians, and general practitioners, and provide the best available care to their infected patients, we will summarize the recently available recommendations on the prevention and management of Monkeypox infection during pregnancy.
Presented by: Sharmistha Roy <sharmi@nmsu.edu>
Institution: ASPHN and Rutgers the University of New Jersey
Keywords: Student, Monkeypox, Pregnancy

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 3:10 - 3:20 pm EDT

Show or hide this track Research and Evaluation Back to top ↑

The Relationship Between Adolescents’ Perception of Weight and Water Intake for Weight Loss Among US Adolescents

Adewumi F. Oladele (MBChB, MED); Mian B. Hossain (PhD, MHS, MS)

Abstract: Background: Although evidence supports the water–weight loss connection, the association between weight perception and water intake among US adolescents remains unclear despite the increasing prevalence of adolescent obesity Objective: To examine the relationship between adolescents’ weight perception and water intake in trying to lose body weight. Methods: Using the 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), nationally representative data were obtained from adolescents in high schools. Besides descriptive analysis, which describes the study sample, various unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models were estimated. Results: Of 8,216 adolescents studied, 33.0% perceived themselves to be overweight or obese (OO) and 31.7%. were really OO. The racial prevalence of OO was higher among non-Hispanic Whites (43.5%) than Blacks (16.7%) and Hispanics (30.6%). Blacks were 40% (OR=0.60; 95% CI=0.46-0.78; p<0.001) significantly less likely to try to lose weight than Whites.. Among participants who perceived themselves to be OO, 67.4%-87.3% had weights ranging from overweight to obese, 59.9% were trying to lose weight, 33.4% drank at least one glass of water daily, 34% drank at least 2 glasses of water daily, and 34.4% drank at least 3 glasses of water daily. More boys (36.7%) than girls (29.4%) perceived themselves as OO. Girls are 30% less likely than boys to perceive themselves as OO (OR=0.70; 95% CI= 0.33–0.82; 0.57-0.86; p<0.002). After adjusting for covariates, adolescents with the perception of being OO were more than 11 times (OR=11.11; 95% CI= 8.2–14.00; p<0.001) significantly more likely to try to lose weight than adolescents who had no perception of being OO. Although those with the perception of OO were 48% (OR=0.52; 95% CI; 0.33–0.82; p<0.004) significantly less likely to not drink water, there is no significant difference in the prevalence of water intake among the OO perception group ( 31.3%) and the group that did not perceive themselves to be OO (34.4%). Conclusion: To reduce the disparities in obesity, both gender and racial-specific interventions and policies are needed. There is also the necessity for more research and health education concerning the role of water intake in losing weight.

Keywords: Adolescents, weight perception, water intake, and weight loss.
Presented by: Adewumi F. Oladele <adola11@morgan.edu>
Institution: Morgan State University, School of Community Health & Policy
Keywords: student

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 3:40 - 3:50 pm EDT

Poster: Assessment of the HIV Testing Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States: A Retrospective Analysis of AMIS Study from 2013 to 2019

Assessment of the HIV Testing Behaviors Among Men Who Have Sex with Men in the United States: A Retrospective Analysis of AMIS Study from 2013 to 2019

Anthony Uchenna Emeribe

Abstract: Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening is a verified preventive approach for controlling the spread of HIV. However, the testing rate of HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) remains vague. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate factors associated with HIV testing behavior among HIV-negative MSM. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of the American Men’s Internet Survey (AMIS) database from 2013 to 2019. The extraction of the data on the HIV testing behavior of HIV-negative MSM which was collected using encrypted HIPAA-compliant survey software, was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The chi-squared test served to identify significant changes over the study period. Results: Out of 63,618 MSM included within the study period, 79.2% (50410/63618) of the participants have ever undergone screening, while 54.2% (34506/63618) underwent HIV screening in the past year. HIV testing among the participants who ever screened for HIV steadily declined from 12.2% (7785/63618) in 2013 to 10.6% (6757/63618) in 2019. Factors associated with HIV testing behavior were race/ethnicity, age, and household income. Conclusion: Monitoring HIV testing behaviors among MSM is vital in understanding epidemic trends and the impact of prevention approaches, including behavioral interventions and techniques to improve compliance with HIV testing.
Presented by: Anthony Uchenna Emeribe <aneme1@morgan.edu>
Institution: Morgan State University, School of Community Health and Policy.
Keywords: HIV testing, HIV, Men that have sex with Men, American Men’s Internet Survey.

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 12:00 - 12:10 pm EDT

Poster: Trends in Physical Activities, Fruit and Vegetable Consumption Among Adults in Mississippi: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2011-202

Trends in Physical Activities, Fruit and Vegetable Consumption Among Adults in Mississippi: Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2011-202

Border-ere Fiemotonghan, Temiloluwa Ogundeyi, Praise Ebimaye Tangbe

Abstract: Consuming a diet high in fruits and vegetables and being physically active have been associated with lower risks of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. In Mississippi, consuming fruits and vegetables and participating in physical activity is generally lower than recommended. This study examined the Physical Activity (PA) and, Fruits and Vegetables (F&V) consumption trends from 2011-2021 among Mississippians. The study also reveals the disparities in PA & F&V in Mississippi. Fruits and Vegetable consumption and physical activity data were collected and analyzed from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance (BRFSS), looking at the prevalence and trends from 2011-2021. BRFSS is an ongoing state-based random-digit-dialed telephone survey of non-institutionalized people in the United States who are at least 18 years old. The results show that between 2011-2019, more people reported being physically inactive, and between 2013-2021, more people reported consuming vegetables one or more times per day in Mississippi. Whites (67.1%) reported being more physically active than Blacks (32.9%). Also, Whites (69.4%, 63.6%) reported consuming more vegetables and fruits than Blacks (30.6%, 36.4%). Those between 18-24 years were reported to exercise less and consume fewer fruits and vegetables. Those who earn between $25,000 -$39,999 exercise less and eat fewer fruits and vegetables when compared to other income earners. Also, females (54.3%) reported engaging in physical activity more than males (45.7%), and they (59.2%, 65%) eat more vegetables and fruits than males (40.8%, 35.0%). The results from the study will guide the state and public health professionals to plan effective program interventions that can increase fruit and vegetable consumption and increase physical activity for targeted and underserved groups. Further research is needed to understand why middle-income earners and participants between ages 18-24 are less physically active and eat less F&V.
Presented by: Border-ere Fiemotonghan <J00945923@students.jsums.edu>
Institution: Jackson State University
Keywords: Fruit and vegetable consumption, physical activity, Mississippi, underserved, Health Disparities

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Weight Inclusive Nutrition In Pregnancy: A Literature Review and Practice Application

Brianna Juma Caverzagie; Katherine Arlinghaus, PhD, RD; Jamie Stang, PhD, MPH, RDN

Abstract: Background: There is an emerging body of literature describing experiences of weight stigma in pregnancy and its potential negative outcomes. This review explores guidance and research that has been published regarding weight-inclusive nutrition counselling during pregnancy.

Methods: A PubMed MeSH search was conducted using terms related to the study aims, with an expanded search through screening relevant citations totaling 48 research papers and practice guidelines. Review articles were excluded.

Results: Many practice guidelines emphasize BMI and gestational weight gain (GWG), however almost none provide guidance on how to approach conversations about GWG or reduce weight stigma for pregnant people. Additionally, few care providers are comfortable discussing weight and nutrition during pregnancy and are often limited by time. People with a higher weight experience stigma, fear, and shame during their pregnancy when emphasis is placed on their risk, and this stigma may be associated with negative health outcomes. Some pregnant people want clearer communication regarding GWG and all ultimately want to feel heard and validated by their provider. While almost no weight-inclusive interventions have been studied, observational research reveals methods like intuitive eating, mindful eating, the 5As of Healthy Pregnancy Weight Gain™, and providing patient-centered counselling may be viable approaches to supporting a healthy, stigma-free pregnancy.

Conclusions: There is a clear need for an interventional study of weight-inclusive nutrition counselling methods in pregnancy. Limited time in prenatal care settings makes WIC a viable setting to test weight-inclusive practices and fill current gaps in the literature.
Presented by: Brianna Juma Caverzagie <juma0008@umn.edu>
Institution: University of Minnesota, School of Public Health
Keywords: Student, Public Health, Pregnancy, MCH Nutrition, Weight-Inclusive, WIC, Nutrition Counselling

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Exploration of the Association Between Family Eating Habits in Adolescence and Intuitive Eating in Young Adulthood

Carmen Wilkinson & Paige Dawson

Abstract: Title: Exploration of the Association Between Family Eating Habits in Adolescence and Intuitive Eating In Young Adulthood

Carmen Wilkinson & Paige Dawson Dr. Cristen Harris, Faculty Advisor

Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to explore the relationship between college students’ current level of intuitive eating and their parents’ or primary caregivers’ feeding style when the college students were adolescents. The secondary aim was to evaluate the relationship between college students’ current level of disordered eating behaviors and their parents' or primary caregivers’ dieting behaviors when the college students were adolescents.

Methods: College students were recruited by posting a link to the online study survey on social media, (Instagram and SnapChat). Inclusion criteria were: age >18 years, currently enrolled college student that shop/cook for themselves (i.e., not living in student housing), and not pregnant/lactating. The study survey consisted of the validated Intuitive Eating Scale, version 2 (IES-2), the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), questions regarding students’ perspectives on their parent’s/guardian’s feeding tactics and dieting habits when the respondents were age 10-13 years, and sociodemographics.

Results: There were 111 participants included in the analyses. The sample was comprised of 25.2% male, 70.3% female, and 4.5% trans and gender non-conforming. Two-factor ANOVA revealed no significant associations between gender and caregiver(s)’ weight loss dieting history with IES-2 total scores. Two-factor ANOVA indicated a significant main effect between caregiver(s) dieting history and EAT-26 total scores (P = 0.018), but between-group differences could not be determined as they were not significant. There was no association between gender and EAT-26 scores, and no interaction. A significant correlation was found between IES-2 total score and the number of feeding tactics parents used at mealtimes (i.e., to either limit or encourage intake) when the participants were 10-13 years old (r = 0.266, P = 0.005). No other significant correlations were detected. Conclusion: Further research is needed to determine types of feeding tactics used during adolescence that relate to the development of self-regulation and intuitive eating in young adulthood. Founding Sources: None.
Presented by: Carmen Wilkinson & Paige Dawson <carmenrwilkinson@outlook.com>
Institution: University of Washington, School of Public Health
Keywords: student, eating habits, eating competence, research,

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Maternal Obesity, Infant Mortality and Preterm Births in Tennessee.

Catherine N. Ononogbo, MSc., Titilola S. Akingbola, MBBS, MSc., FWACP., and Adeola Animasahun MBBS, MPH, Ph.D.

Abstract: Background: Maternal obesity has been indicated as a great contributor to the infant mortality rate (IMR) and preterm births (PTB) in Tennessee (TN). Noticeable racial disparity is also seen in IMR and PTBs with African Americans having a disproportionate burden. Objective: This review aimed to explore the contribution of maternal obesity to racial disparity in the infant mortality rate and preterm birth rates in Tennessee. Methods: In this scoping review, PubMed, National Library of Medicine, Google Scholar, Tennessee Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) Report, Tennessee Department of Health Report (TNDH), and other relevant sources were searched for ‘infant mortality rate’, ‘preterm births rate’, ‘racial disparity’, ‘maternal obesity’ and ‘prepregnancy obesity’ from 2011 to 2021. Result: In 2021, TN had an IMR of 6.2 deaths per 1,000 live births. The racial distribution shows an IMR of 12.6 and 4.2 deaths per 1,000 live births for African American or Black and People without color (PWC) respectively. African American or Black have a PTB of 14.8 deaths per 1,000 live births, which is greater than the rate among all other women by 45%. In 2020, 31.1% and 36.7% of women of childbearing age have obesity in the U.S. and TN respectively, with African American or Black making up 46.4%, People without color or White 33. 8% and Hispanic 27.8%. Maternal obesity contributed to 24% of maternal complications and pregnancy-related deaths in TN. Conclusion: Maternal obesity before pregnancy is associated with adverse outcomes for the infant and the mother, with racial and ethnic minority groups experiencing the worst outcomes. Public health interventions should target these vulnerable groups.
Presented by: Catherine N. Ononogbo <caono1@morgan.edu>
Institution: School of Community Health and Policy, Morgan State University, Baltimore Maryland
Keywords: student

A Review of Cardiovascular Disease in African Americans and its Relation to Mental Health

D'Angelia Holmes

Abstract: Background: Research has shown there is some correlation between poor mental health and cardiovascular disease (CVD); although there is much work to be done in understanding the connections between the two. Adequate mental health may lower people’s risk of mental-health related cardiovascular disease. They are more likely to die from cardiovascular disease than their counterparts despite having lower diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, mental health is deeply stigmatized in the African American community. This research is important to find the link between poor mental health and developing cardiovascular disease or being at higher risk. This study addressed the following questions: How are cardiovascular disease and mental health defined? What is the connection between poor mental health and cardiovascular disease? How can mental health be improved to decrease individuals’ risk of developing cardiovascular disease? What role does geographic location play regarding these diseases? Methods: Literature reviews retrieved from secondary data bases were utilized in answering key questions and as the sources for this paper. The data bases included but were not limited to PubMed, Science Direct, and Health and Human Services (HHS) Public Access as well as statistics from the Centers for Disease Control, Kaiser Family Foundation, and use of infographics from various sites. Conclusions: African Americans’ relationship with medicine is not conducive to receiving adequate treatment for any health complications facing their community. If the issues stemming from cardiovascular disease and mental health are not addressed, then the disparities faced by African Americans will continue plaguing their communities. Black Americans have poorer cardiovascular health compared to white Americans. The lack of health is due to a variety of risk factors and socioeconomic factors adversely affecting the black community. Black Americans even when less afflicted with risk factors like obesity, hypertension, poor mental health, and socioeconomic factors like geographic location and income have higher comorbidity and mortality rates. Nongeographic issues emerged as a bigger factor when investigating geography. Key Words: cardiovascular disease, geography, African American, mental health Honors Capstone Research Mentors and Advisors: Dr. Kartz Bibb, Dr. Sheree Finley, Dr. Qiana Matthews, Dr. Ram Alagan References Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, May 6). Heart Disease and Mental Health Disorders. CDC.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/mentalhealth.htm Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Heart Disease and Mental Health Disorders. [Infographic]. CDC.gov. Kaiser Family Foundation. (n.d.). KFF’s State Health Reports. [Custom State Report]. Retrieved March 15, 2022, from https://www.kff.org/statedata/custom-state-report/?91963- distribution=American%20Indian%20or%20Alaska%20Native~Asian%20or%20Pacific %20 Islander~Hispanic&136837-distribution =American%20Indian%2F%20Alaska%20Native~Asian%2F%20Native%20Hawaiian% 20or%20Pacific%20Islander~Other~Hispanic&view=3&i=136837~91963&g=us~nd~wy Limdi, Nita A et al. “US Mortality: Influence of Race, Geography and Cardiovascular Risk Among Participants in the Population-Based REGARDS Cohort.” Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities vol. 3,4 (2016): 599-607. doi:10.1007/s40615-015-0179-7 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911314/pdf/nihms736160.pdf Piña, I. L., Di Palo, K. E., & Ventura, H. O. (2018). Psychopharmacology and Cardiovascular Disease. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 71(20), 2346–2359. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2018.03.458 Popescu, Ioana et al. “Contributions of Geography and Nongeographic Factors to the White- Black Gap in Hospital Quality for Coronary Heart Disease: A Decomposition Analysis.” Journal of the American Heart Association vol. 8,23 (2019): e011964. doi:10.1161/JAHA.119.011964 https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/epdf/10.1161/JAHA.119.011964
Presented by: D'Angelia Holmes <dangelia.holmes@gmail.com>
Institution: ASPHN Health Equity Internship
Keywords: student, Cardiovascular disease, public health, mental health, African Americans

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Risk of Food and Nutrition and Insecurity (FNIS) in US Households with Children at the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Emilie Holloway, MS, RDN; Candace Sapp, MS, RDN, LDN; Cristina Barroso, DrPH; Katie Kavanagh, PhD, RDN, LDN, CLC; Doris D'Souza, PhD; Sarah Colby, PhD, RDN

Abstract: Introduction: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 1-in-7 households with children experienced food and nutrition insecurity (FNIS). COVID-19 may have made households with children uniquely vulnerable to FNIS risk. This study aimed to determine factors that influenced the risk of FNIS in households with children compared to households without children. Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville COVID-19 Food Survey data about the food and nutrition security of 5,627 US households from March 17 to May 31, 2020. Chi-square analysis was used to assess differences between groups, and binary logistic regressions were used to estimate associations between sociodemographic characteristics and financial availability for food at the beginning of the pandemic. Results: There were significant differences in age, education level, income, SNAP participation, and money for food at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic between households with and without children. Households who were at risk for FNIS prior to the pandemic or had a child were less likely to have enough money to buy food at the beginning of the pandemic. However, households with a bachelor’s degree or higher, income above $35,000, and access to transportation for food were more likely to have enough money for food at the beginning of COVID-19 Discussion: Identifying factors influencing FNIS risk, either positively or negatively, during COVID-19 in households with children can lead to research-informed actionable steps and inform FNIS-related interventions to reduce the prevalence of FNIS in future pandemics.
Presented by: Emilie Holloway <ehollow5@vols.utk.edu>
Institution: UTK, Department of Nutrition
Keywords: student, food and nutrition insecurity, COVID-19, survey

Prevalence Of Obesity And Hypertension Among Government Workers In The Eastern Part Of Nigeria, Enugu State

Josephine Okorie

Abstract: PREVALENCE OF OBESITY AND HYPERTENSION AMONG GOVERNMENT WORKERS IN THE EASTERN PART OF NIGERIA, ENUGU STATE Abstract Background of Study: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a global health issue of public health importance. Risk factors associated with CVDs include obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and the harmful use of alcohol. There is a lack of screening for CVD risk factors among most government workers in Nigerians. Objective: This study assessed the prevalence of Obesity and hypertension among government workers in Enugu State Secretariat, Nigeria. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was employed to carry out the study. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on socio-demographics, lifestyle factors, and dietary patterns from 400 respondents using a simple random sampling method. Anthropometric data and blood pressure were measured, including the inferential analysis done with Chi-square, student t-test, and Pearson correlation. Result: The result showed that 45.3% were overweight and 10.8% were obese, 46.3% were pre-hypertensive, and 18.8% were hypertensive. 63.3% of the respondents had an increased health risk using the waist-hip ratio classification, 14.8% had increased health risk using the waist circumference classification, and 36.8% knew cholesterol levels. 24.8% met recommended physical activity levels, and 15.0% smoked. The result also showed that 30.0% took more than the limit of daily alcohol consumption. Recommendation: Overweight/obesity and hypertension are quite prevalent among government workers in Enugu State Secretariat, which might also apply to government workers all over the globe, which predisposes to a higher increase in the workforce if no prompt intervention occurs. Keywords: Cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and obesity.
Presented by: Josephine Okorie <jooko5@morgan.edu>
Institution: Morgan State University
Keywords: student

Chat with PresenterAvailable Wednesday, June 28th, 12:50 - 1:00 pm EDT

Type II Diabetes & Hawai‘i-Grown Staples

Kirthi Hagalwadi

Abstract: Native Hawaiians (NH) and other Pacific Islanders (PI) are disproportionately affected by high rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease in contrast to lower rates experienced by non-Hispanic Whites. Higher rates of these non-communicable diseases are due to the shift to a colonial diet and sedentary lifestyle, as well as increased consumption of highly caloric, highly processed, and low fiber foods such as white rice, which is imported. My project is intended to fill in the gap in tools that the community lacks to incorporate more Hawai‘i-grown staples into their diet and reap their benefits that can help mitigate the diet-related diseases outlined above. I compiled and synthesized current data about the nutritional profile of Hawai‘i-grown staples and compared them against commonly imported starches. We also administered a survey to directly collect data from our community about their experience with type II diabetes and staple food consumption behavior. Through this survey instrument, we identified that consumers do consume imported staple foods like white rice on a daily basis more often than they consume Hawai‘i-grown staples and identified five different access barriers that prevented them from doing so. The larger implications of our findings are that current methods of accessing, preparing, and understanding the nutritional benefits of Hawai‘i-grown staples are insufficient to support greater consumption of these more nutritious, local staple foods. Instead, ensuring this information becomes more accessible can perhaps create a shift in understanding that leads to an overall healthier lifestyle that aligns with traditional Hawaiian practices and values.
Presented by: Kirthi Hagalwadi <khagalwadi@ucdavis.edu>
Institution: Hawai‘i ‘Ulu Cooperative (HUC)
Keywords: student

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Using Positive Deviance Concepts to Improve WIC Counseling

Krista Nagel, Joni Geppert MPH RDN, Sandy Sather RDN, Mai Thao, Jamie Stang PhD MPH RDN

Abstract: Background: It has been hypothesized that positive, asset-based interventions using strategies from within the community may be more effective at influencing behavior change than deficit-based interventions. Results from the Positive Deviance in Child Obesity Prevention (PD) Study emphasized that some Minnesota WIC children were able to have positive health outcomes due to engaging in deviant health behaviors.

Aim: The aim of this project is to use strategies identified by families in the PD Study to create asset-based messages for use in WIC counseling sessions.

Methods: Minnesota WIC staff are interested in creating short WIC videos with PD Study findings, using content provided by members of diverse cultures. WIC staff across local agencies assessed this project to ensure videos would be successful. Initial video scripts were drafted using parental quotes from the PD Study which illustrated positive deviant behaviors. The first 2 videos were filmed in Spanish in the Spring of 2023, and Pretesting of the video clips was conducted with WIC peer counselors.

Results: The formative evaluation of the initial video scripts showed that staff had a general interest in using asset-based videos with WIC participants and that they found the topics relatable. Pretesting the initial videos with WIC peer counselors provided additional helpful feedback such as how many respondents indicated prefer a shorter video.

Next Steps: The next steps of this project are to finish editing the initial videos and then pilot-test them with WIC participants and WIC peer counselors before being used across the state. A future process and outcome evaluation will be conducted to assess implementation and measure the effectiveness of videos in creating behavior change.
Presented by: Krista Nagel <nagel129@umn.edu>
Institution: University of Minnesota School of Public Health
Keywords: Student, WIC, Asset Based Messages, Positive Deviance, Counseling, Evaluation, Behavior Change

Poster: Maternal and Child Health Public Health Workforce Opportunities and Challenges: Meeting the Nutrition-related Needs in a Rural, Frontier State

Maternal and Child Health Public Health Workforce Opportunities and Challenges: Meeting the Nutrition-related Needs in a Rural, Frontier State

Kristy Rott

Abstract: Maternal and Child Health Public Health Workforce Opportunities and Challenges: Meeting the Nutrition-related Needs in a Rural, Frontier State

Authors: Kristy Rott Mary Larson

Learning Objectives: Describe opportunities for the public health workforce to deliver evidence-based public health nutrition for Maternal and Child Health in a rural, frontier state. Describe challenges for the public health workforce to deliver evidence-based public health nutrition for Maternal and Child Health in a rural, frontier state.

Background Within the state of North Dakota, the mostly rural public health workforce faces challenges in providing nutrition-related health services. MCH nutrition and breastfeeding support is paramount to a healthy lifecycle. This project addresses the workforce capacity and development needs for nutrition-related public health efforts across the Local Public Health Units (LPHU) in a rural, frontier state.

Methods Five semi-structured interviews with public health leaders representing LPHUs in North Dakota were conducted, digitally recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. The semi-structured interview guide was designed to gather information related to the public health nutrition-related MCH programs and services and identify workforce development opportunities and challenges. Thematic analysis, paying particular attention to maternal and child health needs, was conducted.

Results Themes that emerged from the data across the LPHUs include: Challenges–lack of PH workforce who are professionally trained in nutrition, lack of categorical funding for public health nutrition efforts. Opportunities–collaboration with other nutrition services in the community to fill the gaps, relationship building as essential components to providing public health services. Needs–training in leadership skills, policy development, and public health nutrition strategies.

Conclusion

Trained public health nutritionists have an important role in providing nutrition-related services to communities. It is important to acknowledge and support the services that only nutrition professionals can provide and encourage them to enter the field of public health. When it is not possible to employ a public health nutritionist, it is vital that those who are delivering nutrition-related services engage in workforce development to ensure competencies.

Table 1. Themes developed from public health professional interviews. Item: Nutrition education

Interview Comment: "People don't know how to cook. We provide food baskets, provide things that are healthy, but clients are asking for the ultra-processed items because that's what they know what to do with."

Theme: North Dakota obesity rates are a shared concern among public health professionals. Families need increased access to fruits and vegetables, as well as nutrition education and food preparation education delivered by public health nutritionists or other public health professionals who have received nutrition education and are competent nutrition educators.

Item: Lack of funding

Interview Comment: "The barrier is funding in terms of, I want to do this in the community, but it costs money. And I don't get a budget.” "If we wanted to hire another position, funding would be a barrier, I think the position would fill rather quickly." "We just can't compete with the private entity or the larger clinics."

Theme: Funding is required to meet the increased demand for more public health nutritionists in health promotion programs. This barrier limits the capacity of public health units in North Dakota for providing nutrition and health promotion services.

Item: Nutrition training needs in public health

Interview Comment: "If there's going to be education with it and that sort of thing, well, I want somebody with some nutrition background giving that kind of education."

Theme: When a public health nutritionist are not available to provide nutrition-related services, other public health professionals who have completed nutrition education/training should be providing these services. It is important to have dietitians involved in the development of nutrition education materials and in accordance with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics standards of practice.

Item: Leadership and policy development

Interview Comment: "This is one area that we're lacking, that we haven't done too much with policy development." "It's hard sometimes to be at that higher policy level and really trying to push a policy through when our job doesn't allow us to."

Theme: Public health nutritionists have identified a need for greater knowledge of policy development and would like to increase their capacity in developing leadership skills.
Presented by: Kristy Rott <kristy.rott@co.norman.mn.us>
Institution: North Dakota State University
Keywords

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Garden Resource Project: Understanding Garden Resource Utilization By Low Income Families with Children

Mai Thao & Rita Stephenson

Abstract: The Garden Resource Project focuses on understanding garden resource utilization by low income families with children in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Extension’s communication team, gardening and food safety are the two most searched and accessed topics on Extension’s website. However little research has been done to determine whether gardening resources are equitably accessed by low income communities. Our main research question was, what supports do low income families who are interested in gardening need to start or continue gardening at home? To answer this question, we aimed to identify how gardening resources are utilized by low income families and what additional supports are needed. Semi-structured interviews were then conducted with eligible individuals to provide insights on their interest and experiences with gardening. From the findings 5 major themes were identified regarding gardening among low-income families: (1) Some baseline support was needed for families to initiate gardening, (2) challenges in gardening are inherent and require having a “growth mindset”, (3) concerns about the future environment and mistrust in the current and future food systems motivated many participants to garden, (4) gardening is perceived as having many benefits beyond just providing food, and (5) gardening involves a variety of social and community aspects. The themes identified from our analysis will be used to inform recommendations for Extension gardening resources to be more applicable and accessible to low income families who currently home garden or want to home garden in the future. Possible recommendations may include ways to make gardening seem less intimidating, suggestions for how to provide physical resources to families (such as seeds or containers), as well as other ways to make Extension resources more accessible.
Presented by: Mai Thao & Rita Stephenson
Institution: University of Minnesota School of Public Health, Division of Epidemiology & Community Health
Keywords: evaluation, home vegetable gardening, low income families, student

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Bringing Health Awareness to the Community: One Post at a Time

Meleah N. Pea

Abstract: Over 95% of the world’s population has health problems, with over a third having more than five ailments, and 72.3% of the US population actively use social media, totaling 240 million people. This research project is a newly developed campaign to foster a student, faculty and staff, and administration dialogue about Health Equity at Grambling State University in Grambling, LA, in the community and worldwide. Health Equity is the core of this social media campaign designed to help students and faculty on campus, online, and people worldwide think about their food choices, physical and mental health, and everyday well-being decisions.
Presented by: Meleah N. Pea <Peameleah@gmail.com>
Institution: Grambling State University, Department of Biology
Keywords: student

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 12:30 - 12:40 pm EDT

Assessing the Effectiveness of the SWAP Program at a Food Pantry in Hamtramck, Michigan

Olivia Ford PhD, MPH, RD; Rachel Bessire, MPH, RD; Alice Jo Rainville, PhD, RD, CHE, SNS, FAND; Tsu-Yin Wu, PhD, RN, FAAN

Abstract: Supporting Wellness at Food Pantries (SWAP) is a program that was developed in 2016 by the Institute for Hunger Research & Solutions at Foodshare/CT Food Bank. SWAP sorts foods into green, yellow, and red categories based on nutrient content. A food pantry in Hamtramck, Michigan implemented SWAP in July 2022. This included posting stoplight nutrition signs for clients identifying which foods were green, yellow, and red, and what the color coding meant. We conducted 117 cart audits over 5 days in December 2022 at the food pantry. Averages varied by day, but overall, cart contents averaged 52% green foods, 16% yellow foods, and 32% red foods. For 4 out of 5 days that cart audits were conducted, the percentage of green foods in client carts was higher than that of red or yellow foods. SWAP awareness surveys (n=95) were collected from clients and 61% percent of respondents participated in government assistance programs, 65% said they have children in their home, and 57% identified as Black. Forty-five percent of respondents agreed that the stoplight signs helped them choose healthy foods and 64% agreed or strongly agreed that they noticed the stoplight nutrition signs at the food pantry. However, only 25% of respondents indicated that the stoplight signs helped them choose foods lower in sugar, salt, or fat. Our goal is to continue evaluation of SWAP and increase the number of green category foods offered by the pantry and chosen by clients.
Presented by: Olivia Ford PhD, MPH, RD
Institution: Eastern Michigan University Center for Health Disparities Innovations and Studies
Keywords: Food access, SWAP, evaluation

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 12:10 - 12:20 pm EDT

Program Evaluation of Local Grantee Experiences Implementing Breastfeeding and Food Insecurity Title V Priorities

Robin Stanton

Abstract: A qualitative program evaluation was conducted for the July 1, 2016-June 30, 2020 fiscal year of Title V local public health agency and Tribal nation grantees working on breastfeeding and food insecurity priorities. The evaluation describes the successes and barriers that grantees experienced. Data from agency plans and reports were analyzed using qualitative methods. Eleven grantees chose Title V MCH food insecurity strategies (29% of MCH Title V grantees) and 26 grantees (68% of MCH Title V grantees) selected breastfeeding as a Title V priority. Four themes emerged from the grantees’ narratives about what contributes to their success: 1) working across levels of influence of the Social-Ecological Model 2) year-to-year consistency 3) institutional supports and partnerships 4) limitations of the measures grantees selected for their plans. Common barriers to success included staff turnover, lack of leadership buy-in, inadequate data systems, inconsistent communication across programs, accountability, activity churn and lack of community input during planning stage. Results are used to learn how the state can support grantees for success, to support development of metrics that define success and incorporate themes into state Title V strategic planning.
Presented by: Robin Stanton <robin.w.stanton@oha.oregon.gov>
Institution: Public Health Division
Keywords: Title V, breastfeeding, food security

Chat with PresenterAvailable Tuesday, June 27th, 3:20 - 3:30 pm EDT

Assessing Nutrition Literacy Among HIV/AIDS Clients at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Mississippi

Ryan Johnson

Abstract: This study assesses nutrition literacy and evaluates the outcomes of a nutrition literacy intervention program on nutrition knowledge and behavioral intentions among HIV/AIDS clients receiving care services at a multi-site federally qualified health center in semi-rural Mississippi. Researchers applied a quasi-experimental and non-experimental study design to recruit a purposive sample of eligible adults to participate in a nutrition literacy intervention program. Using “NLit,” a validated nutrition literacy assessment instrument for the chronically ill, we employed quantitative methods to collect cross-sectional, pre and post-test data. Study researchers analyzed a paired t-test analysis and descriptive statistics to evaluate the outcomes of the nutrition literacy intervention on participant knowledge and behavior change intentions. Our results show that the mean average of NLit pre-test scores was significantly different than post-test scores (p=0.0263; CI 95%). The program evaluation outcome data revealed that most participants intended to change unhealthy behaviors. From a practitioner's perspective, this study supports prior research that suggests interventions designed to address nutrition literacy among HIV/AIDS populations that receive healthcare services at a federally qualified health center can improve nutrition literacy knowledge and increase the likelihood of behavior change.
Presented by: Ryan Johnson <j00937989@students.jsums.edu>
Institution: Behavioral and Environmental Health
Keywords: student

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Poster: Racial disparities in infant mortality and the influence of social determinants of health in Maryland: Research and Programmatic implication ASPHN Intern: Tamaraemumoemi Okoro , Preceptor: Dr. Adeola Animasahun

Racial disparities in infant mortality and the influence of social determinants of health in Maryland: Research and Programmatic implication ASPHN Intern: Tamaraemumoemi Okoro , Preceptor: Dr. Adeola Animasahun

Tamaraemumoemi Emmanuella Okoro

Abstract: Background: Among the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development ( countries, the United States ( ranks 39th for the lowest infant mortality rates If the US ranked among the OECD countries based only on its non Hispanic black IMR, it would rank 44th instead of its current ranking at 39th position. Maryland mirrors the national profile in these health indices The structures of racism strongly influence the effect of social determinants of health ( on the infant mortality rates of NHBs Eliminating persistent racial disparities in health outcomes will require policy interventions that address the life course of the African American experience.

Purpose: This narrative scoping review aims to highlight the counties in Maryland with significant racial disparities in infant mortality rates, highlight the contributory factors and make recommendations on how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) can be critical partners in providing solutions.

Methods: Google Scholar and PubMed electronic databases were used for literature extraction. Inclusion criteria: peer reviewed published literature assessing racial disparities in infant mortality and the influence of social determinants of health; data from the CDC and state health departments. Exclusion criteria: unverified data sources; studies without data on African American population . Keywords for the literature search: infant mortality, racial disparities, social determinants of health, United States, African Americans, Blacks, Hispanics, Latinos, racial minorities, and people of color.

Results: Infant death rates in the US are higher than in other high income countries, even though the US spends more on healthcare per person and as a share of GDP. The US infant mortality rate (IMR) in 2020 was 5.8 deaths per 1,000 live births, while the average rate for OECD countries was 3.8 deaths per 1,000 live births. The IMR for NHBs was 10.38 per 1,000 live births, while NHW infants had mortality rates of 4.40 per 1,000 live births. African American women in the US have higher rates of poor birth outcomes, including preterm delivery, low birth weight (LBW), and small for gestational age, than NHWs and Hispanic women. Historically, the IMR for all races combined in Maryland has been higher than national rates because of the higher proportion of black people and higher black infant mortality rates compared to whites. The IMR in Maryland in 2020 was 5.7 per 1,000 live births. Non Hispanic black infants had an IMR of 9.9 per 1,000 live births, while NHW infants had an IMR of 3.3 per 1000 live births. The three leading causes of IMR in Maryland are LBW, congenital abnormalities, and maternal complications of pregnancy. The counties with the highest IMRs in 2020 are Dorchester (13.3), Wicomico (11.2), and Baltimore City(10.3). Low birth weight is the leading cause of IMR in Maryland, and NHB infants have a four time more likelihood of mortality from LBW than NHW infants. The influence of social determinants of health on infant mortality differs by race. Social inequalities, geographic disparities, and lifelong wear and tear effects of racism on African American mothers contribute to higher black infant mortality rates in the US compared to other races

Discussion: There is ample evidence that African Americans have the highest infant mortality rates across all racial and ethnic groups in the United States Newborn physician racial concordance is associated with significant improvements in the survival of black newborns The racial diversity of nurses is also associated with improved maternal and child outcomes. Building a diverse maternal and child (workforce that equitably includes underrepresented minorities that look like the communities they serve can be a game changer to improve health outcomes and reduce or eliminate racial disparities Historically Black Colleges and Universities are uniquely positioned to provide community based participatory research and a culturally matching workforce to address racial disparities in health indices. Research & Program Implications: Setting up MCH academic programs in HBCUs would increase the diversity of the MCH workforce in training and improve community based participatory research in their communities to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

Research & Program Implications: Setting up MCH academic programs in HBCUs would increase the diversity of the MCH workforce in training and improve community based participatory research in their communities to improve maternal and child health outcomes.

References: Bediako, P. T., BeLue, R., & Hillemeier, M. M. (2015). A Comparison of Birth Outcomes Among Black, Hispanic, and Black Hispanic Women. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 2(4), 573 582. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40615 015 0110 2 Hill, L., Artiga, S., & Ranji, U. (2022). Racial Disparities in Maternal and Infant Health: Current Status and Efforts to Address Them. Kaiser Family Foundation. https://www.kff.org/racial equity and health policy/issue brief/racial disparities in maternal and infant health current status and efforts to address them/ Schneider, E.C., Shah, A., Doty, M.M., Tikkanen, R., Fields, K., Williams, R.D. (2021). Mirror, Mirror 2021 Reflecting Poorly: Health Care in the U.S. Compared to Other High Income Countries. https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/fund reports/2021/aug/mirror mirror 2021 reflecting poorly
Presented by: Tamaraemumoemi Emmanuella Okoro <taoko1@morgan.edu>
Institution: Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Predominantly Black Institutions Alliance Team for Maternal, Child, And Family Health Equity Initiative (HAT), Maryland USA
Keywords: student

Pregnancy Outcome Among Pregnant Sickle Cell Disease Patients at a Tertiary Facility in Nigeria

Titilola Akingbola

Abstract: Introduction: Despite the limited cure, sickle cell disease (SCD) patients are almost universally reaching childbearing age. This being a byproduct of the advances in care and improved survival. Although studies on complications during pregnancy have given mixed results, it is acknowledged that SCD has a higher risk of complications in pregnancy. Objective : To evaluate the effects of pregnancy and increase the understanding of the clinical course of SCD in pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study. The inclusion criteria were pregnancy in SCD with confirmed hemoglobin electrophoresis, at pH 8.4 between January and December 2018. Results: A total of 47 pregnant SCD patients, aged 15 – 36 years (27.64years) with a ratio of Hb SS to Hb SC of 1.61:1 were studied. Seventeen patients (36.2%) did not know their hemoglobin phenotype before admission. Two patients (4.3%) had hypertension in pregnancy, and only nine (26.5%) did not require a blood transfusion. Fourteen (33.3%) patients delivered before the estimated gestational age of 37 weeks (10 vs. 4: Hb SS and Hb SC). Seven (16.7%) of the 42 babies born died. Fifteen (36.6%) of the pregnant participants had cesarean sections; most of these patients—three-fifths of them—had sickle cell anemia. Five (10.6%) SCD patients died during the review. Conclusion: The maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality in the SCD population studied were high. Urgent public health intervention is imperative. Newborn screening should be backed up by national policies.
Presented by: Titilola Akingbola <tiaki2@morgan.edu>
Institution: Morgan State University
Keywords: student

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