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Potential health crisis in the wake of deadly storm and flooding in Derna, Libya
The number of fatalities and missing persons continue to mount after a storm caused massive flooding in the town of Derna, located in the northeast region of Libya. While search and rescue will remain the most urgent priority in the near term, addressing acute health needs will be a major factor in the wake of this disaster, said Jennifer Horney, founder and director of the epidemiology program at the University of Delaware. The collapse of two dams are likely to cause long-term water borne diseases of all types. With little existing health infrastructure in the area, treating and managing health will be extremely difficult. Safe food and water will be scarce. There is a strong possibility of infectious disease outbreaks and the spread of communicable disease. Other experts from UD's Disaster Research Center who can comment on the flooding in Libya: Tricia Wachtendorf: Disaster relief and donations, and alignment post-disaster – i.e., making sure donations that aren't needed don't flood the supply chain. Wachtendorf can also discuss evacuation decision-making, volunteer efforts, disaster response and coordination. Sarah DeYoung: Dealing with unsolicited infant formula donations, and infant and maternal health. Can also discuss pets in emergencies, infant feeding in disasters and decision-making in evacuation. Jennifer Trivedi: Long-term recovery and challenges for people with disabilities during disaster.
Immediate and long-term recovery in post-earthquake Morocco
Sunday's earthquake in Morocco – the strongest to hit the center of the country in more than a century – has taken the lives of more than 2,500 people so far and leveled countless homes and businesses. Experts from the University of Delaware's Disaster Research Center can discuss various topics related to the tragedy. Tricia Wachtendorf: Disaster relief and donations, and alignment post-disaster – i.e., making sure donations that aren't needed don't flood the supply chain. Wachtendorf can also discuss evacuation decision-making, volunteer efforts, disaster response and coordination. Rachel Davidson: Can discuss building damage, and conducts research on natural disaster risk modeling and civil infrastructure systems. Davidson looks at lifelines (e.g., electric power, water supply) and risk from a regional perspective during and after earthquakes and other disasters. Jennifer Horney: Environmental impacts of disasters and potential public health impacts for chronic and infectious diseases. Sarah DeYoung: Dealing with unsolicited infant formula donations, and infant and maternal health. Can also discuss pets in emergencies, infant feeding in disasters and decision-making in evacuation. Jennifer Trivedi: Long-term recovery and challenges for people with disabilities during disaster. Click on the profiles below to contact any of these experts and set up an interview.
ChristianaCare has received a $100,000 grant from JPMorgan Chase & Co. to launch a youth employment program to build a more diverse and inclusive health care workforce. “At ChristianaCare, we embrace diversity and show respect to everyone,” said Dia Williams Adams, MPA, vice president of philanthropy at ChristianaCare. “Providing exposure to health care careers at an early age and building pipelines to employment are key components to building strong and healthy communities. We are deeply grateful to JPMorgan Chase for its generosity and commitment to inclusion and diversity.” The program, Health Impacts, is a year-long pilot program designed to connect youth ages 16 to 18 from low-to-moderate income households within the Greater Wilmington area to career opportunities in health care. Health Impacts will include an intensive training program, during which the teens will learn from ChristianaCare health professionals about workforce development skills and the characteristics essential for career success. The training program will be followed by a nine-month paid internship that culminates with employment opportunities at ChristianaCare. During the internship the teens will receive additional career coaching and participate in work-based learning assignments to help them develop skills, such as effective interviewing, relationship building and a strong work ethic. “There are fantastic opportunities in health care today that can match up with a wide variety of interests and provide young people with a career path that offers financial stability and growth – plus the personal rewards of doing work that helps others,” said Kamela Smith, M.Ed., manager of Community Education and Engagement at ChristianaCare. “This program is an exciting opportunity to expand our local health care workforce while inspiring young people in our community to be the next generation of caregivers.” JPMorgan Chase’s support of Health Impacts is part of a $30 billion Racial Equity Commitment by the global financial services provider to help close the racial wealth gap and advance economic inclusion among communities that are underserved in the United States. “As one of Delaware’s largest employers, we are incredibly focused on creating a more equitable and inclusive economy for more residents across the region,” said Jac Rivers, Vice President, Global Philanthropy Program Officer Eastern Region, JPMorgan Chase. “Building a skilled workforce and ensuring that all people, regardless of background, have access to the support they need is critical to these efforts. Together with a dynamic community partner like ChristianaCare, and the launch of their new Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) in Wilmington, we can truly help unlock opportunity for more Delaware residents to access meaningful jobs and lasting economic growth.” To learn more about ways to give to ChristianaCare, visit https://www.christianacare.org/donors.
It's déjà vu all over again. Less than a year after Hurricane Ian brought floods and destruction to Florida towns off the Gulf of Mexico, another storm, Hurricane Idalia, is expected to strengthen significantly ahead of its expected landfall on Wednesday. Experts from the University of Delaware's Disaster Research Center can talk about a variety of topics, including preparedness, sea-level rise, managed retreat, evacuations and recovery, as they relate to the latest hurricane to hit the Sunshine State. A.R. Siders: Expert on sea level rise and managed retreat – the concept of planned community movement away from coastlines and flood-prone areas. She can discuss the impact of the expected storm surge and what can be done in the future to prepare and avoid costly and deadly ramifications from the resulting flooding. Tricia Wachtendorf: Evacuation decision-making, disaster response and coordination, disaster relief (donations) and logistics, volunteer and emergent efforts, social vulnerability. Jennifer Horney: Environmental impacts of disasters and potential public health impacts for chronic and infectious diseases. Sarah DeYoung: Pets in emergencies, infant feeding in disasters and decision-making in evacuation. Jennifer Trivedi: Challenges for people with disabilities during disaster, cultural issues and long-term recovery. Joe Trainor: Post-storm housing decisions and insurance. To schedule an interview with any of these experts, simply click on their profile and send them a message.
Georgia Southern University’s Institute for Health Logistics and Analytics (IHLA) and the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) have once again joined forces to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in confinement facilities across the state. DPH has awarded the IHLA a contract worth $10 million to complete a second year of work. “Throughout the pandemic, COVID-19 was a significant cause of illness and death among confinement facility residents and employees,” said Jessica Schwind, Ph.D., director of IHLA. “SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is still circulating and we need to continue to support these facilities in reducing viral transmission.” With the funding, the IHLA assists with the purchase and coordination of allowable COVID-19 mitigation items for enrolled facilities across the state of Georgia. The focus in year two of the project is to improve air quality and offer a seamless process for confinement facilities. Recipients do not incur any direct costs and the paperwork and the procurement process is handled entirely by Georgia Southern. “We work with each facility to determine what they need,” said Kathryn Stewart, budget manager at IHLA. “We then handle the ordering, payment and delivery. For facilities that need fairly standard supplies, we have an easy order form process. For those with complex requests, we work with them individually to make sure they receive the best solution for their particular needs.” Facilities in Georgia are eligible to receive $25,000 to $250,000 of COVID-19 mitigation supplies. The amount awarded is determined by the number of detainees each facility is licensed to hold. Eligible items include portable HEPA filter units to improve air quality, personal protective equipment and cleaning and disinfecting supplies. “We are really proud of the work this institute has accomplished,” said Carl Reiber, Ph.D., Georgia Southern’s provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Not only has the IHLA maintained a focus on public impact research, it is a shining example of the significant role Georgia Southern is taking on improving health across the state.” All eligible correctional confinement facilities, which includes adult prisons and jails, youth detention centers and holding cells in the state of Georgia, are encouraged to enroll, even if they received funding in the previous cycle. This project is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Detection and Mitigation of COVID-19 in Confinement Facilities Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity Grant Program, which provided a financial assistance award to the Georgia Department of Public Health. For more information and to enroll in the program visit the project's website: The IHLA at Georgia Southern provides comprehensive solutions to improve and advance the health of populations around the world. The institute specializes in planning, evaluation, capacity building and research services to enhance the health infrastructure in organizations and communities. To learn more or to speak with Jessica Schwind, Ph.D., director of IHLA - simply contact Georgia Southern's Director of Communications Jennifer Wise at jwise@georgiasouthern.edu to arrange an interview today.
As Popularity of Weight Loss Medicine Soars, Professionals Caution Against “Magic Pill” Mindset
A growing weight-loss fad has been dominating headlines this summer. No, it isn't a new type of trendy diet, exercise regimen or social media influencer-touted superfood. It's two medications—Ozempic and Wegovy—that have skyrocketed in popularity as more Americans turn to these once-weekly injections to aid in their weight loss efforts. But, while acknowledging the drugs' effectiveness, their intended patient populations and appropriate usage has become far more nuanced and situational, and the intended outcome of long-term weight loss and health is dependent on more than just taking either of these medications once a week. "While these medications can be helpful for some people who struggle with weight loss, it's important to remember that they are not a magic solution," said Rebecca Shenkman, MPH, RDN, LDN, director of the MacDonald Center for Nutrition Education and Research at Villanova University's M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing. First, it's important to understand the components and histories of both Ozempic and Wegovy. They are prescription medications of the same drug, semaglutide, which belong "to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes," per Shenkman. It was discovered by researchers that significant weight loss was a side effect of semaglutide. Ozempic is the 2017 FDA-approved drug used to help treat diabetes. Currently, it is not FDA approved for weight loss and typically not covered by health insurance when used for that purpose, per Shenkman, but is often prescribed off label for "weight management in certain individuals who do not have diabetes, but struggle with obesity or [are] overweight." Wegovy was approved by the FDA in 2021 as an anti-obesity drug used for individuals living with obesity or individuals with excess weight, but not classified as living with obesity, who also have other associated health problems. "When used correctly, the drugs can have many benefits," Shenkman said. "[Semaglutide] is shown to improve diabetes and body weight in addition to seeing improvements in cardiovascular health and risk factors." However, "correct use" is what concerns Shenkman and other health and nutrition professionals. "Anti-obesity drugs are a valuable tool for people who have not experienced adequate benefit from self-directed or professionally directed lifestyle treatment," she said. "However, what we are seeing more and more of now is that people are requesting anti-obesity medications without meeting eligibility criteria for drug use, [such as] body mass index and weight criteria, [or] having the foundational knowledge and application of healthy lifestyle behaviors prior to medication use." To Shenkman's first point, there are several factors, especially in American society, driving those who may not meet the criteria for these medicines or even truly need them to request and ultimately receive the drugs. The media's portrayal of ideal body image is an enormous influence, which can lead to "body dissatisfaction and a desire for quick weight loss solutions," said Shenkman. Advertisements for these drugs often promote those ideas, and even downplay side effects, making them more appealing. Intrinsically tied to body image is the struggle many individuals have with psychological issues related to food, such as emotional or binge eating. "They feel that their self-worth is tied to their weight, and they will do almost anything to lose weight, whether it be five or 50 pounds." Shenkman said. "These individuals might believe that medication will help them control their eating habits more effectively." Identification of such issues prior to prescription approval is something that providers need to be aware of and screen for, Shenkman said. "It is so important for providers to complete a comprehensive pre-treatment assessment of their patients who start on weight loss medications. Unsupervised or improper use can lead to malnutrition, unhealthy weight loss or even a worsening of an undiagnosed or undertreated eating disorder or mental health condition." But even users who meet all pre-treatment criteria may be turning to the drugs in haste, or believe that they alone will solve their problems, and do so quickly. "Americans are known for having that 'quick-fix mentality' where people often seek quick solutions to their problems, including weight loss," Shenkman said. "Weight loss medications might promise faster results compared to lifestyle changes, which can take time and dedication." Compounding this "quick-fix mentality" is the frustration many feel when they fail to see results after multiple unsuccessful attempts at weight management. "The abundance of information on diets, exercise routines and weight loss programs can be overwhelming… Some may turn to medications as they seem more straightforward and require less effort to understand," explained Shenkman. But, as health care providers know, they are far from straightforward. All drugs, including Ozempic and Wegovy, come with the potential for side effects, which can vary with the individual. Headlines this summer focused on reports of users experiencing gastroparesis, described by Shenkman as the "the slowing down or 'paralysis' of the digestive system and gastric (or stomach) emptying." Though most often reported to cause nausea and vomiting, complications of gastroparesis can be quite serious. "If someone continues the medication and experiences chronic gastroparesis, complications to be aware of include malnutrition, dehydration, acid reflux, blood sugar control and even bowel obstruction," Shenkman said. The American Society of Anesthesiology also recently issued guidance on the use of such drugs prior to surgery, given potential life-threatening complications. "When prescribing anti-obesity medication, it is the responsibility of healthcare providers to inform patients about potential side effects and risks associated with the medication," Shenkman said. "It is also the right of the patient/consumer to ask questions and understand what they are putting in their body. A thorough discussion about benefits and possible adverse effects can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment." Many users may also not fully understand that these drugs are usually taken long-term, even after reaching a desired weight. Stopping without the knowledge of how to keep the weight off may lead to its return. Considering the pros and cons of the drugs, Shenkman's advice is simple. "Weight loss medications should always be used as part of a comprehensive weight management plan, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity and lifestyle changes. Relying solely on medications without addressing other aspects of weight management is not likely to lead to long-term success no matter how long you stay on a medication."
Fort Stewart, Georgia Southern University, sign agreement to offer graduate courses on base
Representatives from Georgia Southern University and Fort Stewart signed an official memorandum of understanding Monday morning that clears the way for Georgia Southern to offer a slate of in-demand graduate courses this fall on base. Col. Manuel F. Ramirez, garrison commander at Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield, and Kyle Marrero, president of Georgia Southern University, signed the agreement in front of officials from both organizations and the University’s live bald eagle mascot, Freedom, at Fort Stewart’s SFC Paul R. Smith Army Education Center. With the agreement, Georgia Southern will offer the following degree programs at the Fort Stewart education center: Master of Business Administration Master of Health Administration Master of Science in Information Technology Master of Arts in Professional Communication and Leadership Professional Communication and Leadership – Graduate Certificate Cybercrime – Graduate Certificate “This is truly a collaboration that will provide incredible opportunities and possibilities for our soldiers and our family members here on the installation,” Ramirez said. “Here at Fort Stewart, we’ve always believed in investing in our most precious asset, which is our people. And today, this partnership is a shining testament to that belief. By adding Georgia Southern to our stable of schools here at the Education Center, we’re opening doors to advanced education, professional development, and then a brighter future for all of our soldiers and their family members and all those people who call Fort Stewart home.” This partnership allows soldiers and their families to advance their career prospects by equipping them with the knowledge and skills and preparing them for increased responsibility in the Army and afterward, he said. Marrero said the courses that will be offered are being configured to allow Soldiers and their families to pursue higher education without disrupting their duties or relocating, allowing them to strike a healthier work-life balance while investing in their personal growth. Marrero thanked the teams behind the agreement and noted that the courses will be flexible and compressed to meet the unique needs of military-connected students. Marrero said this partnership between Fort Stewart and Georgia Southern University creates valuable educational opportunities for soldiers and their families by offering accessible and high-quality master’s degree programs on-site. It’s also the latest example of the University’s commitment to the military, which has led to Georgia Southern being named a “Military-Friendly” school for six years in a row and a “Gold School” for 2023-2024 by Viqtory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs and Military Spouse magazines. “We have had a rich history of partnerships here,” Marrero said. “For us, this is a beginning and a continuation of the belief in the transformational power of education. We are proud and excited to be your partner. Thank you so much for this opportunity.” To learn more about the courses being offered at Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield, visit think link below: If you are interested in knowing more about this partnership or would like to speak with Kyle Marrero, president of Georgia Southern University, simply contact Georgia Southern's Director of Communications Jennifer Wise at jwise@georgiasouthern.edu to arrange an interview today.
Bridget Melton, Ed.D., professor in the Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology at Georgia Southern University, is part of a team awarded $1.1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to assist with a study aimed to promote wellness in firefighters and first responders. Melton is collaborating with researchers at the University of Kentucky as part of a three-year study that builds on a decade of foundational work by Melton and the Tactical Athlete Initiative team in the Waters College of Health Professions, College of Education and the Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health. The grant will help the researchers assist firefighters with injury mitigation, better work outcomes and reduction in financial burdens. “Our tactical research team has collaborated with our local fire department, Statesboro Fire Department, to create an industry-leading integrated health approach to firefighter wellness,” stated Melton. “In this model, the firefighter’s health and wellness is prioritized in a cost-effective approach.” The integrative approach brings the best human performance practices to first responders, infusing strength and conditioning coaches, athletic trainers, nutrition specialists and mental skill experts. A handful of agencies nationwide are beginning to embrace this integrated approach. Even with the model’s success, there is still limited research on benefits to the firefighter, health care costs and the organization with this new model, Melton noted. “The goal of the FEMA study is to provide agencies and government officials with evidence supporting the model,” she said. “We want to be able to demonstrate to these individuals that their return on investment will be worth it, as firefighters using the model will sustain fewer injuries; therefore, the agency’s financial burden will be reduced.” Looking to know more - we can help. To connect with Bridget Melton from Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology at Georgia Southern - simply contact Georgia Southern's Director of Communications Jennifer Wise at jwise@georgiasouthern.edu to arrange an interview today.
Is dark chocolate really the healthier choice? New study reveals concerns
For those who love chocolate, dark chocolate is often seen as the "better" or "healthier" option. But is it really? This past December, Consumer Reports analyzed 28 dark chocolate bars from a variety of brands and found that 23 of them contained concerning levels of lead, cadmium or both. Melissa Melough, an assistant professor of behavioral health and nutrition at the University of Delaware, recently told The New York Times: “If you’re a regular consumer of these dark chocolates, I would be concerned." This concern is especially heightened if one is pregnant, breastfeeding or have a child who enjoys dark chocolate. For more on why dark chocolate may be concerning, reach out to Melough by clicking on her profile.
ChristianaCare Chief Information Security Officer Anahi Santiago Receives Prestigious Routhy Award
ChristianaCare Chief Information Security Officer Anahi Santiago, EMBA, CISM, has been recognized with the Routhy Award, which honors one cybersecurity professional each year who delivers a profound impact within health care and the information security profession. Health-ISAC awards the Routhy. The organization is a global, member-driven non-profit that offers health care stakeholders a trusted community and forum for coordinating, collaborating and sharing vital physical and cyber threat intelligence and best practices with each other. “Anahi is a one-of-a-kind CISO,” said Randy Gaboriault, MS, MBA, chief digital and information officer and senior vice president at ChristianaCare. “Deeply committed to information security, Anahi shares her wide breadth of experience and knowledge with peers throughout the country as a gifted speaker, mentor and content expert. She is expert in the field of cybersecurity. “Through her deep commitment to patient safety and information security she has led the implementation of some of the most progressive cybersecurity safeguards within ChristianaCare. This is a well deserved recognition and we are thrilled to see Anahi receive this prestigious award.” Santiago is recognized as one of the nation’s foremost cybersecurity experts. With over 20 years in Information Technology, Santiago has extensive experience in areas of cybersecurity, privacy, regulatory compliance, program management and infrastructure services. “We are so pleased to have the opportunity to recognize Anahi for her years of leadership and selfless contributions to the community of Health-ISAC, affiliated associations, and the health care sector,” said Denise Anderson, Health-ISAC president and CEO. “She has been instrumental in sharing with her peers, participating in initiatives, and mentoring others in the sector. She is absolutely deserving of the Routhy Award. Congratulations, Anahi, and thank you!” Santiago has overall responsibility for the organization’s information security program and strategic direction. She leads a team of high performing information security professionals in supporting ChristianaCare’s strategic initiatives. Santiago does this by partnering with the business leaders and managing risks, implementing policies and controls, and generating overall awareness. “For years, I’ve watched people that I admire receive this award,” Anahi Santiago said. “I want to credit this amazing Health-ISAC organization for advancing cybersecurity in health care, protecting patients and bringing cybersecurity professionals together to share, innovate and protect.”
