Shenandoah University (SU) is partnering with Sunrise Medical Laboratory, John Handley High School, and James Wood High School in a four-year study investigating risk factors for the development of heart disease and diabetes in teens. The study is titled Screening Teens Early With Identification and Intervention (STEWII ).
Purpose of the Study:
1)Identify the prevalence of risk factors for the development of chronic health disorders in teens in this region.
2)Determine the effectiveness of a two (2) part reoccurring electronic education program utilizing social media (REEP) in minimizing selected risk factors for chronic health disorders.
To accomplish Purpose 1, subjects will be screened for blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight/body mass index, gum inflammation, and serum evaluation for total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins, high density lipoproteins, triglycerides, risk ratio, fasting blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C, thyroid stimulating hormone, vitamin D, and C-reactive protein. Results from the screening will be compiled to generate a risk level for each subject. Part 1 will involve written, visual, and/or audio components.
To accomplish Purpose 2, the study will present a two-part, bilingual (English/Spanish) reoccurring electronic education program utilizing social media (REEP). Part 1 defines/describes each risk factor, identifies the normal values for each risk factor and how those values are interpreted, explains why each risk factor is important, and provides information about lifestyle activities that help minimize each risk factor. Part 2 involves sending subjects a weekly or biweekly electronic message (EMs) related to healthy lifestyle choices that help minimize selected risk factors. These short EMs will be based on evidence-based sources and will involve written and/or audio components.
For more information contact Dr. Pam Webber (Principle Investigator) at 540-665-5511.