The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #47767

Linda S. Sandoval, MA, Department of Health Science - Southern Area Health Education Center, New Mexico State University, Box 30001, MSC AHC, Las Cruces, NM 88003, 505-646-2087, linsando@nmsu.edu

Hispanic adolescents living in underserved communities need the opportunity to explore health issues that affect their age group as well as information regarding course work that will influence their success in continuing their education in the health field. By investigating the learning styles that adolescents employ, and eliciting their feedback regarding their preferences in learning new information, their reception to gaining more knowledge about health professions is much more positive than if the information is disseminated through a traditional lecture and passive listening style. Hispanic adolescents living in underserved areas who participate in youth health clubs in their school have the opportunity to learn more about topics such as teen pregnancy, teen suicide, gang violence, fetal alcohol syndrome, diabetes, heart disease, and other topics in addition to learning how to present the information to educators and peers. In addition, by involving school personnel and parents, adolescents participating in youth health clubs also gain the opportunity to further educate their communities regarding health issues that affect their peer group and families. By attending presentations, field trips, and other activities, Hispanic adolescents participating in youth health clubs expand their knowledge regarding their health, their communities' health issues, and most importantly, gain inspiration and motivation to pursue a health profession upon their completion of high school.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this session, participant will be able to

• Identify key individuals who will play a vital role in the establishing of a youth health club.
• Assess learning styles of youth health club members.
• Create basic learning activities or curricula to assist youth health club members in exploring health topics relevant to their age group as well as health career options.
• Develop surveys to assist in the reporting of data.
• Recognize areas of improvement to better serve schools, parents and students involved in the youth health clubs.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Paso del Norte Health Foundation (grant)