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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Lindsay Briggs, MPH¹, Kathy Lisby, MPH Candidate¹, Wycliffe Okumu, MPH Candidate¹, Joan Henkle, DNS, RN¹, and Jose Lusende². (1) Department of Public Health, Indiana University School of Medicine, 1050 Wishard Blvd., RG 4171, Indianapolis, IN 46202, 317-278-0354, lindsaybriggs@yahoo.com, (2) Indiana Minority Health Coalition, 3737 North Meridian Street, 3rd Floor, Indianapolis, IN 46208

This project was an assessment of an inner-city fitness facility to determine if the facility could meet the needs of the surrounding community, specifically targeting ways to address known health disparities in the area. The project was conducted by public health students with the support of the local minority health coalition and the fitness facility. The specific aim of the project was to provide information, data, and direction for enhancing and improving the services and facilities of the fitness center. A variety of methods were used to achieve this goal. The student team surveyed active and inactive members, and conducted partner and key informant interviews. Prior to the present fitness center, the center was a YMCA which closed because of financial difficulties. The new center was reopened in partnership with the center township and the local minority health coalition, which provided an opportunity to address the issue of health disparities as well as barriers to health promotion activities. Many barriers were identified such as lack of financial support and governmental neglect. However, several recommendations were suggested that could result in greater usage of the facility and provide positive approaches when tackling health disparities in the community. Disparities between African Americans and Caucasians with regards to obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes have been well documented in this city. Wellness programs, nutrition education classes, and physical fitness training were some of the programs identified that would have greatest impact on decreasing these disparities.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Identify creative methods community partners can use to work together to combat health disparities.
• Articulate challenges to sustaining an inner-city fitness facility.
• List four health promotion programs that would have the greatest impact on decreasing health disparities in inner-cities.

Keywords: Access and Services, Community Collaboration

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered