Presentation Type
Poster
Discipline Track
Community/Public Health
Abstract Type
Program Abstract
Abstract
Background: The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) has emerged as a region in the United States grappling with profound health challenges, prominently characterized by elevated rates of diabetes and obesity among its diverse residents. (11) In this comprehensive public health research endeavor, our objective is to delve deeply into the intricate relationship between educational disparities and health outcomes of the multifaceted RGV population. This connection can then be utilized as a focal point for breaking down the health disparities in the RGV.
Methods: Employing a rigorous methodology, we conduct an exhaustive literature review to illuminate the connection between educational disparities and healthcare disparities in the Rio Grande Valley. Our exploration aims to find the extent to which disparities in education contribute to the emergence and perpetuation of healthcare disparities within the region. Drawing on valuable insights garnered from over nine-hundred hours of active participation in the “College 1st” educational outreach program, we underscore the pivotal role that education plays in proactively addressing and mitigating health disparities. (17,21) 300 surveys were collected after each event. These surveys contained questions assessing the effectiveness of the camp in changing the students cognitions about college, homework, and school.
Results and Discussion: The findings underscore an urgent and compelling need to address prevailing educational gaps within the RGV, emphasizing that rectifying these gaps is not only crucial but also a fundamental step toward improving the overall health and well-being of its diverse residents. Despite the region’s enduring reputation as a focal point for health disparities, acknowledging the connection between educational disparities and health disparities is paramount in designing effective intervention strategies such as College 1st. Survey analysis is still underway, but the preliminary data showcases that the implementation of College 1st program helps to improve the students cognitions surrounding homework, school, and attending college.
Conclusion: This research contributes to the broader discourse on health disparities by providing an examination of the relationship between educational disparities and health outcomes in the Rio Grande Valley. It is imperative to address educational gaps in order to find a solution for the healthcare disparities in the Rio Grande Valley. Through these efforts we can pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future for the Rio Grande Valley, which can serve as a model for the world.
Academic/Professional Position
Medical Student
Mentor/PI Department
Population Health and Biostatistics
Recommended Citation
Shaju, Ronald A., "Addressing Educational Disparities to Improve Health in the Rio Grande Valley" (2024). Research Symposium. 5.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/somrs/2024/posters/5
Included in
Addressing Educational Disparities to Improve Health in the Rio Grande Valley
Background: The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) has emerged as a region in the United States grappling with profound health challenges, prominently characterized by elevated rates of diabetes and obesity among its diverse residents. (11) In this comprehensive public health research endeavor, our objective is to delve deeply into the intricate relationship between educational disparities and health outcomes of the multifaceted RGV population. This connection can then be utilized as a focal point for breaking down the health disparities in the RGV.
Methods: Employing a rigorous methodology, we conduct an exhaustive literature review to illuminate the connection between educational disparities and healthcare disparities in the Rio Grande Valley. Our exploration aims to find the extent to which disparities in education contribute to the emergence and perpetuation of healthcare disparities within the region. Drawing on valuable insights garnered from over nine-hundred hours of active participation in the “College 1st” educational outreach program, we underscore the pivotal role that education plays in proactively addressing and mitigating health disparities. (17,21) 300 surveys were collected after each event. These surveys contained questions assessing the effectiveness of the camp in changing the students cognitions about college, homework, and school.
Results and Discussion: The findings underscore an urgent and compelling need to address prevailing educational gaps within the RGV, emphasizing that rectifying these gaps is not only crucial but also a fundamental step toward improving the overall health and well-being of its diverse residents. Despite the region’s enduring reputation as a focal point for health disparities, acknowledging the connection between educational disparities and health disparities is paramount in designing effective intervention strategies such as College 1st. Survey analysis is still underway, but the preliminary data showcases that the implementation of College 1st program helps to improve the students cognitions surrounding homework, school, and attending college.
Conclusion: This research contributes to the broader discourse on health disparities by providing an examination of the relationship between educational disparities and health outcomes in the Rio Grande Valley. It is imperative to address educational gaps in order to find a solution for the healthcare disparities in the Rio Grande Valley. Through these efforts we can pave the way for a healthier and more equitable future for the Rio Grande Valley, which can serve as a model for the world.