Scope
Summer 2000
School of Public Health faculty, staff, and students conduct nutrition research project in eastern Zambia
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| Loma Linda University faculty and administrators prepare for the convocation. |
During September, Gail M. Ormsby, MPH, director of the Center for Health and Development, and assistant professor of international health, School of Public Health; five students from the School of Public Health (Cindy Loh, Yenenesh Aberra, Stuart Belle, Tim Klein, and Annie Gronewald); and Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) project coordinator Stafford Ormsby, conducted a study in the area near Mwami Adventist Hospital in eastern Zambia.
The study focused on the validation of anthropometry methods (including mid-upper arm circumference and skinfolds), and comparison with bioelectrical impedance analysis, used for measuring body fat composition as part of a nutritional assessment of mothers and their children.
Malaria prevalence was also screened among the children, and of the 134 children tested, at least 50 percent tested positive for malaria. Mean hemoglobin for mothers and children was found to be below normal levels. These results "demonstrate the need for appropriate health services and education," reports Ms. Ormsby.
"This project in Zambia has exposed me to the intricate details of planning, designing, organizing, and conducting research in the field of public health," says Stuart Belle, a student in the international health master's degree program. "Collecting the data provided a valuable learning experience. Not only has this trip contributed to the development of my research skills, I have seen firsthand what public health is really about.
"It was possible for me to see primary health care at work, and observe the role of the community in sustainable development. Being involved in work at the 'grass roots' level is where I want to channel my skills," Mr. Belle states.
Tim Klein, a student in the international health master's degree program, sums up his experience: "It became apparent through this field-based study project that many preventable diseases, including malnutrition, could be avoided by sharing appropriate public health teachings."
The project was funded by the Center for Health Research. Further assistance was provided by Roche Pharmaceutical Industries, TANITA Corporation, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, SIMS, Mwami Adventist Hospital, the District Ministry of Health, and private donations.
[Scope, Summer, 2000 contents]
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