4283.0: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - Board 10

Abstract #27746

Suggested principles for conducting global health research

Clyde B. McCoy, PhD1, Lisa R. Metsch, PhD1, Christine C. Miles, MA1, and Lee A. Crandall, PhD2. (1) Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Miami School of Medicine, , N/A, (2) Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Miami, 1801 NW 9th Ave Suite 212H, Miami, FL 33136

Research transcending national boundaries is important for many reasons, from epidemiological studies of health problems and behaviors that are regional or global in impact to comparative studies of risk factors to pilot testing and evaluation of specific interventions. An additional important benefit of international collaboration is that it helps build capacity for dealing with health problems on the local or national level in resource-poor areas and helps shape policy in developing countries and countries undergoing rapid social change. International collaborative efforts conducted by this team in China, India, Central and South America, Poland and Puerto Rico have suggested principles that facilitate the conduct of global health research. Topics to be presented include the following and specific examples of their importance will be provided: (1) shared methods, (2) context-sensitive issues, (3) administration, (4) publication and dissemination, and (5) international research challenges. Specific research and global health projects conducted by this University of Miami research team include epidemiological and comparative studies of substance abuse and HIV/AIDS. Another focus is on capacity building as related to telehealth and telemedicine which hold promise for enhanced clinical expertise and rapid availability of needed services as geographic barriers are removed. Specific logistic and financial challenges including technology transfer and electronic information sharing, language and cultural barriers, resource prioritization, and the intersection between law enforcement and health policy will be addressed. The benefits of university-based infrastructure will also be stressed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will identify and prioritize key principles that facilitate successful global health research.

Keywords: Challenges and Opportunities,

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
Disclosure not received
Relationship: Not Received.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA