Graduate Research Papers

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Open Access Graduate Research Paper

Abstract

The Eastern Caribbean Basin (ECB) is comprised of several diverse islands that share many common characteristics. As tourism has increased in most of the islands, chronic disease patterns have also increased. The governments of these island nations are well aware of the need for increased health education efforts, but adequate personnel are not always available locally.

Complications from chronic disease are escalating in the aging population. Efforts to expand health education efforts among the islands would assist in reducing these complications and early deaths.

Diseases often seen on the ECB islands include hypertension, cardiovascular and heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and sexually transmitted disease. Additional health concerns include domestic violence, poor nutrition, lack of exercise, and accidental injuries, to name a few.

Health education, as a component of health interventions, can be an effective tool in providing improved, sustainable health behavior change. Providing health education in a culturally specific train-the-trainer model offers an effective method of expanding the impact of health education.

University health education students and faculty, as well as other health educators from private and nonprofit sectors have ample educational opportunities among the ECB islands. The populations are generally accepting and appreciative of efforts to provide health information. In particular there is a high level of interest by local health officials and workers to learn new techniques and current health information.

Health education in conjunction with medical treatment efforts can have a profound impact on lifestyle changes that promote healthier populations. Addressing the needs of the ECB island populations in the early stages of chronic illness can effect positive change.

Year of Submission

2001

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

School of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Services

First Advisor

Michele Yehieli

Comments

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Date Original

2001

Object Description

1 PDF file (46 pages)

Language

en

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