Addressing Health Disparities from Within the Community: Community-Based Participatory Research and Community Health...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities Research
• Community-Based Participatory Research

Background:

• The Coalition for a Healthier Community for Utah Women and Girls (CHC-UWAG) addressed obesity-related health disparities in Utah women of color.
• Utilized community-based participatory research, a gender-based approach, and culturally sensitive health promotion via community health workers (CHWs).
• A randomized trial on wellness coaching intensity by CHWs was conducted, during which policy issues emerged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the process of identifying, tracking, and engaging with emerging policy initiatives related to health disparities.
• To document the CHC-UWAG's engagement in policy work.
• To analyze the impact of policy on women and girls' health.

Main Methods:

• Policy initiatives were identified and tracked in a shared document from September 2011 to August 2017.
• Policies were classified by level (organizational, local, statewide) and focus (healthy eating, active living, CHW promotion).
• CHC-UWAG's policy engagement activities were systematically documented and tracked.

Main Results:

• Dissemination of findings spurred interest in CHWs for obesity intervention.
• Partner organizations implemented healthy eating and physical activity policies.
• Policy initiatives addressed CHW utilization barriers, leading to a CHW Section and Coalition in Utah.

Conclusions:

• Consistent solicitation of policy information facilitated successful tracking and engagement.
• A gender-based approach effectively highlighted the influence of emerging policies on women and girls' health.
• The study demonstrates a model for integrating policy work into community health initiatives.