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Evaluated an intervention, conducted through black churches, to increase fruit and vegetable intake. Churches received either standard intervention; culturally sensitive, multicomponent self-help with one telephone cue call; or culturally sensitive multicomponent self-help with one cue call and three counseling calls (with motivational interviewing). Motivational interviewing resulted in the greatest fruit and vegetable intake increases at 1-year followup. (SM)

Describes the Modeling and Reinforcement to Combat HIV (MARCH) approach to behavior change, which educates through entertainment (entertainment figures modeling positive behaviors) and community-level interpersonal reinforcement (support from friends, family, and others to encourage behavior change). MARCH focuses as much on enabling people to enact and maintain new cognitive and behavioral patterns as on promoting the behaviors themselves. (SM)

Assessed the short-term effects of a television counteradvertising media campaign, the Florida "truth" campaign, on rates of adolescents' smoking initiation. Followup surveys of adolescents interviewed during the first 6 months of the advertising campaign indicated that exposure to the "truth" campaign lowered the risk of youth smoking initiation. Results did not demonstrate that all such programs would be effective. (SM)

Examined HIV transmission behaviors and health practices among HIV-infected youths over 15 months following participation in a preventive intervention that emphasized coping with HIV and reducing risky behaviors. The intervention resulted in increases in social support coping and reductions in risky sexual and lifestyle behaviors specifically related to the content of each module. Some gender differences were noted. (SM)

Compared the sexual risk taking behaviors of gay, lesbian, and bisexual (GLB) and heterosexual adolescents, evaluating associations between gay-sensitive school HIV instruction and GLB adolescents' risk behaviors. Surveys indicated that GLB students had more high risk behaviors than heterosexual students, and those in schools with gay-sensitive instruction reported fewer high risk behaviors than did those in other schools. (SM)

The past 2 decades have shown that HIV prevention can work. Evidence worldwide indicates that concerted national HIV prevention efforts have resulted in maintenance of low seroprevalence rates or decline in rates where they would have otherwise risen. The best efforts are based on sound scientific research. Advances in, challenges to, and future directions for HIV prevention research are examined. (SM)

Discusses the development of American pediatric medicine and its relationship to children's health and public health movements in the early 20th century, describing living conditions during that time and examining developments that impacted child health: dispensaries and milk stations for impoverished children, campaigns to educate parents about illness prevention and child rearing, and medical inspection of public schools and students. (SM)

To compensate for an unhealthy food environment, foods high in calories, fat, or sugar could be subjected to special taxes, with costs of healthful foods subsidized. This paper reviews state tax laws, identifying 19 states and cities that levy such taxes. These taxes raise about $1 billion annually. The paper proposes using such revenues to fund health promotion programs. (SM)

A survey of 531 tenth graders in an Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epicenter confirms their risk of acquiring the AIDS virus. Because socioenvironmental factors may strongly influence AIDS risk behavior, elucidation of the social influence process among adolescents should become a prevention research priority. (SLD)

The Tuskegee study of untreated syphilis in black males caused distrust by blacks of the public health system that has implications for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) studies. AIDS prevention among blacks may require openness about the Tuskegee study to allay fears of repetition. (SLD)

Controversy over attempts to establish a needle and syringe exchange scheme in New York City (1985 to 1991) as an Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) prevention measure are described. These efforts highlight several political and social pitfalls in AIDS prevention. (SLD)

Data from the Hispanic Health and Nutrition Examination Survey are used to investigate the prevalence of hearing loss and hearing aid use among 1,682 Mexican-American, 441 Cuban-American, and 628 Puerto Rican adults. Hearing loss, very prevalent in the general population, is also highly prevalent in the Hispanic-American population. (SLD)

Demographic impacts of meeting the National Health Objectives for 2000 were studied using life-table methods. Meeting the targets would increase life expectancy at birth by 1.5-2.1 years to 76.6-77.2 years. Modifying the coronary heart disease and unintentional injury targets to be more optimistic would further increase life expectancy. (SLD)

Few U.S. youths particularly from minority groups, pursue careers in science or environmental health. This description of efforts to boost the number of black scientists considers why such initiatives may not work. Economic concerns and the low prestige of many college science programs contribute to minority disinterest in science. (SLD)

Studying the prevalence of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) among American Indians and Alaskan Native populations reveals a low 1990 case rate but a rapid increase in diagnosed cases, at a rate higher than any other racial/ethnic group. Culturally sensitive prevention programs are required. (SLD)

A survey of 50 Native American and 100 other families assessed injury prevention awareness and practices among urban Native Americans in Salt Lake City (Utah). Native American families were less aware of and less likely to practice prevention than others. These characteristics are more likely caused by low-income status than culture. (SLD)

The results of a survey of 710 Indians in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho indicated that HIV, if introduced here, could decimate the population because of the large numbers of youth in the middle risk group: young, male, alcohol and drug users, and very active sexually. (DM)

Describes pilot test of survey of grocery store product displays to measure the amount of health education information provided and the proportion of the display devoted to "healthier" products. Finds that inter-rate reliability ranged between 0.73 and 0.78 for the healthiness indices and between 0.30 and 0.67 for the health education measures. Test reliability ranged from 0.44 to 1.0. (FMW)

Evaluates a point-of-purchase nutrition education program in Pawtucket (Rhode Island). Uses consumer interviews to evaluate the effect of awareness of shelf labels on purchase behavior. Reports increases in shoppers' ability to identify correct shelf labels and in the number of shoppers who were encouraged to buy the identified foods. (FMW)

Enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assays to detect chlamydial cervicitis were performed on samples from 1,320 sexually active university women. Seventy-five had positive tests. Demographic, history, symptom, and physical examination variables were insufficient to predict infection accurately. Concludes that screening during routine visits with this population is cost effective. (Author/JS)

Discusses a tuberculosis skin testing program introduced for seventh and tenth grade students in Boston (Massachusetts) public schools. Positivity rate was significantly higher in tenth grade students. Among those testing positive, the majority were born outside the United States. Results suggest that testing may identify a significant number of candidates for preventive therapy. (Author/JS)

The effects of school policy on cigarette smoking among seventh graders were investigated in this study. All of the schools involved had restrictive smoking policies and many had smoking prevention education plans. Although punitive measures were found to have no effect, smoking policy generally was found to decrease adolescent smoking. (AF)

Biological questions about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are minor compared with political and ethical problems related to the AIDS epidemic in the United States. Lack of public confidence in the work of public health officials and the controversy surrounding New York City's syringe exchange program are two examples. (SLD)

Outlines public policy goals regarding substance abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, unintended pregnancies, and violence. Concludes that the nation will continue to be high-risk until reforms are implemented that will equalize access to the opportunity structure. (DM)

With funding from the National Institutes of Health's Community Engagement Alliance, starting in fall 2020, 11 academic medical centers and 75 community partners came together as the California Alliance Against COVID-19 to address COVID-19 inequities in California. Using data from focus groups, statewide meetings, and a statewide partner survey, we describe how promotoras and community health workers (P/CHWs; n = 540) helped to promote access to COVID-19 information, testing, and vaccination. We highlight opportunities to promote health equity among other public health collaborators with a P/CHW model. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S1):S45-S49. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307471).

Community engagement in research improves uptake of health interventions and health outcomes among marginalized populations. Researchers from school-based health centers serving marginalized communities in Miami, Florida fostered community engagement in COVID-19 research and health education through collaboration with school staff and student "champions" from June 2021 to June 2023. Evaluations completed by champions assessed acceptability, feasibility, and recommendations for improvements. Overall satisfaction was high among champions. We elaborate on lessons learned and future directions for this type of research collaboration. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(8):789–793. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307711) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay describes a process for integrating US Latiné communities as drivers of a grassroots vision for healthy Latiné communities and health equity planning that addresses racial injustices. Transforming structural conditions to promote Latiné community health happens alongside creating conditions for community-level self-determination to foster community-based ecosystems of health. Integrating a life course perspective, we describe a vision for community-based ecosystems of Latiné health that is rooted in forging connections and cultivating community; building community power to address structural drivers of health; leveraging the expertise and assets of promotores to reach, engage, and mobilize communities; scaling solutions through policy, system, and environment changes; and grounding research processes in community-driven priorities. Such processes must affirm the expertise of promotores and Latiné communities and recognize the interconnectedness of communities and systems (e.g., food, housing, living wages) to nurture health at local levels. Research can advance the science and evidence-based models that support community-based ecosystems of Latiné health. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S6):S525–S533. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307763) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Latinx (Hispanic) social construct obscures differences in the overdose risk levels of groups within this category. When national data are disaggregated, stateside Puerto Rican mortality increases exponentially, so much that this community has the highest rates of overdose deaths across years. Developed by Bronx-based Puerto Ricans, Narcanazo is an empowered upstander campaign that uses local overdose data to mobilize community members as trained naloxone dispensers. This health promotion campaign was grounded in antiracist epidemiological analysis. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S6):S463–S466. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307605) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the role of Evart G. Routzahn and the Public Health Education and Health Promotion's (PHEHP) section of the American Public Health Association (APHA) in developing, systematizing, and disseminating public health education and communication methods. Topics include personal and career background of Routzahn, approaches that became foundational to health educators' work, and the growth of the PHEHP section.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented wide-ranging leadership challenges to public health leaders and public health organizations. In its wake, as the necessity of reconstructing public health and modernizing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is considered, we reviewed reports from the Commonwealth Fund and the CDC and other leadership-focused literature to identify common themes for a new generation of public health leaders. We posit that this new generation must have the ability to communicate (build and maintain trust and accountability); forge, facilitate, and promote partnerships; connect public health and health care systems; build information systems that provide accessible, actionable data; engage in systems and strategic thinking and action; center equity and inclusivity and understand structural racism as a fundamental driver and creator of health inequities; and achieve and maintain resilience and self-care. For each of the 7 abilities, we offer a description, assess what COVID-19 taught us about the necessity of the ability for public health leaders, and offer suggestions for developing (or honing) one's skill set, mindset, and tool set in this regard. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(6):626–632. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307633) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted focus groups with staff from 5 community-based organizations (21 participants; 86% female, 52% Hispanic/Latino/a/x and 24% Mexican/Mexican American) between August and October 2021. Results highlighted community partner perceptions of practices congruent (e.g., communication that built trust and dismantled power dynamics, a shared mission) and incongruent (e.g., intervention–community misalignment, research driven decision-making) with equitable implementation in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a promotores de salud intervention to increase COVID-19 testing and preventive behaviors among Latinx communities in Oregon. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S5):S377–S383. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307686) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Black church has long been seen as a crucial partner in addressing public health issues. This paper describes the development, implementation, and evaluation of a community-engaged church intervention addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in underserved Black communities in Jefferson County, Alabama. We partnered with churches to implement and evaluate the intervention between March and June of 2022 and found that our church partners were capable of significant messaging reach, particularly through electronic means. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S5):S392–S395. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307683) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through a COVID-19 public health intervention implemented across sequenced research trials, we present a community engagement phased framework that embeds intervention implementation: (1) consultation and preparation, (2) collaboration and implementation, and (3) partnership and sustainment. Intervention effects included mitigation of psychological distress and a 0.28 increase in the Latinx population tested for SARS-CoV-2. We summarize community engagement activities and implementation strategies that took place across the trials to illustrate the value of the framework for public health practice and research. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S5):S396–S401. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307669) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present findings from a May 2022 to March 2023 qualitative evaluation of Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics–Underserved Populations (RADx-UP) projects addressing COVID-19 testing disparities among underserved populations. Interviews with academic and community partners from 13 RADx-UP projects revealed that despite the pandemic, projects were able to build trust and relationships with underserved populations. By prioritizing community voices during a public health emergency, RADx-UP projects improved health equity and pandemic preparedness in these communities, successfully conducted community-engaged research, and built long-lasting community partnerships. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S5):S410–S415. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307632) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article describes how faith-health-academic partnership addressed COVID-19-related challenges experienced in a large-scale, religiously and culturally tailored COVID-19 testing intervention in Kansas City, Missouri from 2021-2022. Topics discussed include participant characteristics, the use of a community engagement approach, and concerns of project partners.

The article describes Indigenous Community-Based Participatory Research (ICBPR) and provides an example of how it was utilized in the Project Safe-Schools (PSS) study. Topics discussed include examples of ICBPR in the PSS study, diversity within and across indigenous tribes, and cultural keepers of knowledge and strengths.

Providing aspirin during pregnancy is a critical intervention proven to reduce the rates of preeclampsia in patients at risk. This quality improvement project prepared family medicine residents to use public health strategies to improve screening of pregnant patients at risk for preeclampsia in an underserved population. A preeclampsia awareness campaign was launched utilizing a publicly available toolkit, while a multidisciplinary team implemented systemic clinical changes to increase the rates of preeclampsia risk factor screening and aspirin prescription to prevent preeclampsia. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S4):S318–S321. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307667) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article revisits the landmark 1988 report, "The Future of Public Health (FOPH)" from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) which highlighted the fragmented and non-interconnected public health system, along with public complacency. Cited are the current state of U.S. public health in light of the 1988 report, and an assessment of where there is significant progress, where progress is lagging, and where there are strong warning signs and harms.

The landmark 1988 Institute of Medicine report The Future of Public Health served the public health community well by pointing to what needed to be done, fostering a sense of urgency, and offering concrete directions to be pursued. In this article, the impact of the 1988 report, and of the subsequent 2003 report on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is considered by tracing the course of the ideas that influenced the consciousness of the public health community and subsequently catalyzed concrete action. Among these ideas was that "public health is in disarray." This assessment led to an awareness that something needed to be done. Further, by stating that the public health enterprise had 3 core functions (assessment, policy development, and assurance), the 1988 report set in motion policy development to address the "disarray." At a more fundamental level, both reports championed the need for governmental public health (particularly at the CDC) to take action to strengthen the capacity of local and state public health agencies to address a growing range of public health threats and emergencies. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(5):489–494. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307598) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights the progress in U.S. public health since the publication of the 1988 report "The Future of Public Health" from the Institute of Medicine (IOM). Cited are future of public health after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published request for applications for funding as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of March 11, 2021, state of public health that led to the naming of the IOM committee, and efforts to bring about the embodiment of the report's vision.

The author comments on an article within the issue on the role of school nurses in providing menstrual education to school children in the U.S. since the early 20th century. Topics discussed include the limitations of menstrual education and its implications for public health, recommendations to address these challenges, and the reasons for the lack of use of the provision of menstrual education in schools.

The article considers school-based health centers as an important entry point for access to timely, appropriate, and necessary preventative and treatment-specific health care for children. Topics discussed include gaps in health insurance coverage for children, inequities in health care for children, and impact of school-based health centers.

The article discusses the need for systematic approaches addressing violence in families and relationships to address U.S. maternal health outcomes. Topics include effects of intimate partner violence (IPV), medical societies that recommend perinatal screening for IPV, and the need for perinatal health care providers and health systems to overhaul their approaches to stopping IPV and its multigenerational impact.

The article discusses the health improvement of Latino communities in the U.S. via physical activity (PA) research amid complex social and cultural conditions as of July 2024. Topics covered include the population's reduced occupation-based physical activity, the rise in adult obesity, racial inequities related to moderate or vigorous physical activity (MVPA) engagement, and immigration and context influencing PA. Also noted are recommendations for research and intervention strategies.

The article discusses the increased amount of misinformation and the growing awareness of its impact on the public's health which led to calls for public health workers and other health professionals to respond to, counter, or correct misinformation to the greatest extent possible. Topics include the great deal of attention being received by the concept of misinformation, variations of misinformation, and the role of the health professional.

Symptoms of poor mental health among working people, especially health workers, are on the rise in the United States, contributing to a burgeoning market of thousands of mental health technology products, few of which have undergone rigorous evaluation. Most research on these products focuses on deploying digital mental health interventions as ancillary support in clinical practice and community settings. Little is known of the effectiveness of these tools when employers offer them. We describe the landscape of digital mental health interventions, providing an overview of mental health conditions that are addressed with technology-based solutions in the workplace and the products and services available. We argue for employers to apply a methodical approach to evaluating and selecting technologies for their organizations, and we review relevant frameworks for evaluation. Considering the rapidly evolving landscape of digital mental health interventions, we offer evidence-informed recommendations to organizations and decision-makers seeking to support workplace mental health and well-being, and we advocate the development of products that help organizations assess how they can mitigate workplace conditions that may contribute to poorer mental health. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S2):S171–S179. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307505) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. To identify how "cisgender" has been used in public health articles in recent years relative to the historical origins of the term to mark normative gender and describe systems of social power. Methods. I analyzed 352 US-focused public health articles (2013–2020) using a summative content analysis approach. I traced cisgender use by year and compared it by sample population (cisgender-only, mixed, not cisgender). Results. I identified 4 interlocking and mutually reinforcing patterns of cisgender use: limited and narrow use, undertheorized use, use as the default gender, and reinforcing binary categorization. These patterns largely result from the narrowing of cisgender to a demographic label. Conclusions. Cisgender is primarily used to categorize individual research participants as not transgender rather than to reflect participants' actual identity and experiences within gendered systems of power, which undermines cisgender's potential to support gender-inclusivity efforts and deepen understandings of gender-based health disparities. Public Health Implications. Two paths for creating more robust use of cisgender are (1) supporting gender inclusivity by clarifying and standardizing how and when the demographic category is used and (2) expanding the analytic potential of cisgender by returning to its historical origins as a framework for exposing and explaining patterns of power. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(2):202–208. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307441) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]