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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Carol L. Adams-Means, MA, communication, university of texas at san antonio, MB2.248T 6900 north loop 1604, san antonio, TX 78249, 2104587730, meanscla@yahoo.com

Qualitative methods are employed using ethnographic interviews to identify extant and potential health risks in African American women. Thirteen African Americans living in Austin, Texas were interviewed on multiple topics. Through in-depth interviews several themes emerged including that of physical health, health practices and family health histories. These interviews and “thick” descriptions, provided background health information on the participant and the participant's extended family. The research was able to identify current health practices of women who have diagnosis of depression, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, family health histories of diabetes and heart disease, compromised use of medications, problems with child health, difficulty with access to adequate medical care, including transportation to health facilities, and lack of adequate health insurance. While this is but a micro evaluation of the health and health practices of African American women, these interviews suggest a greater need for design of health communication messages, health education and patient compliance as well as additional planning for health care services as these populations continue to age.

Learning Objectives:

• Application of ethnography to health assessment in special populations.
• Application of indepth interviewing to assess emergent themes in health behaviors.

Keywords: Community Education, Women's Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No