South Med J. 2017 Jul;110(7):447-451. doi: 10.14423/SMJ.0000000000000671.
- 1
- From the College of Medicine/College of Public Health and the Department of Health Behavior, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Lexington.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES:
In traditionally underserved communities, faith-based interventions have been shown to be effective for health promotion. Religious leaders-generally the major partner in such interventions-however, are seldom are consulted about community health priorities and health promotion preferences. These insights are critical to ensure productive partnerships, effective programming, and sustainability.
METHODS:
Mixed-methods surveys were administered in one of the nation's most under-resourced regions: rural Appalachia. A sample of 60 religious leaders, representing the main denominations in central Appalachia, participated. Measures included closed- and open-ended survey questions on health priorities and recommendations for health promotion. Descriptive statistics were used for closed-ended survey items and conventional qualitative content analysis was used for open-ended responses.
RESULTS:
Substance abuse, diabetes mellitus, suboptimal dietary intake and obesity/overweight, and cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses constitute major health concerns. Addressing these challenging conditions requires realistically acknowledging sparse community resources (particularly healthcare provider shortages); building in accountability; and leveraging local assets and traditions such as testimonials, intergenerational support, and witnessing.
CONCLUSIONS:
With their extensive reach within the community and their accurate understanding of community health threats, practitioners and researchers may find religious leaders to be natural allies in health-promotion and disease-prevention activities.
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