American journal of preventive medicine
-
Severe hypertension (≥180 mmHg systolic or ≥110 mmHg diastolic) is associated with a twofold increase in the relative risk of death. At the authors' Federally Qualified Health Center in the Southeast, 39% of adults (n=8,695) had hypertension, and 3% (n=235) were severe. The purpose of this project was to lower blood pressure and improve the proportion of patients achieving the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality goal for blood pressure. ⋯ Multidisciplinary outreach and use of evidence-based guidelines (Eighth Joint National Committee) were associated with lower blood pressure in patients with severe hypertension.
-
Gender minority blacks represent the intersection of multiply marginalized populations that experience severe health inequities in the U.S. However, few studies focus on the unique health experiences of this multiply disadvantaged population. This study quantifies the health inequities experienced by gender minority blacks in the U.S. using an intersectional framework. ⋯ Gender minority blacks have health experiences that are distinct from those of both the cisgender black and gender minority populations with which they intersect. Health policies and programs, including data collection efforts, must specifically consider this multiply marginalized population to effectively advance health equity.
-
To provide up-to-date substance use surveillance data among U.S. military veterans versus nonveterans, this study assesses current use of tobacco products, alcohol, marijuana, prescription pain relievers, tranquilizers, sedatives, stimulants, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, inhalants, and hallucinogens. ⋯ Intensified efforts are needed to reduce substance use among veterans and provide cessation and mental health services.
-
West Virginia leads the nation with the highest rate of acute hepatitis B. From 2013 to 2015, the West Virginia hepatitis B Vaccination Pilot Project distributed more than 10,000 doses of hepatitis B vaccine to at-risk adults through local health department clinics and through outreach to correctional facilities and substance use treatment centers. This study aims to determine which setting type is associated with the greatest likelihood of at-risk adults receiving all 3 or at least 2 doses of hepatitis B vaccine. ⋯ Hepatitis B vaccination delivered at local health department family planning clinics, substance use treatment centers, or correctional facilities may increase vaccine dose completion in West Virginia.
-
Increased use of ENDS in the U.S. is related to acute adverse events from liquid nicotine exposure. This paper provides national estimates of U.S. hospital emergency department visits for exposures from liquid nicotine exposure in individuals aged ≥5 years. ⋯ This study provides national estimates of emergency department visits for injury and poisoning cases related to nicotine exposure from ENDS among individuals aged ≥5 years. Although long-term health outcome studies of liquid nicotine exposure are not available, these estimates provide some insight into the acute health effects. Findings from this study may inform education programs aimed at preventing exposures related to ENDS products.