Prediabetes, diabetes, and other CVD-related conditions among Asian populations in Los Angeles County, 2014.

Objective: To assess the prevalence of four common health conditions related to cardiovascular disease risk among Asians in Los Angeles County. Methods: A survey of Asians in Los Angeles County was conducted utilizing purposive sampling to recruit from the region's Service Planning Areas 3 and 4; these underserved areas contain high density of Asian populations. Descriptive and multivariable regression analyses were performed to explore and describe potential associations between self-reported diagnoses of prediabetes, diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol and body mass index (measured with non-Asian versus Asian cut points) by race/ethnicity (Chinese/Filipino/Korean/Taiwanese/Thai/Vietnamese). Results: The survey response rate was nearly 60%. The analysis included 1,377 Asians, self-identified as either Chinese (n = 700), Filipino (n = 69), Korean (n = 339), Taiwanese (n = 48), Thai (n = 115), or Vietnamese (n = 106). Results showed that, in comparison to other Asians, Filipinos had the highest risks for two of the four conditions described. Other results by subgroup affirmed a similar heterogeneous pattern of Asian health locally. Conclusions: These and other results from the survey point to potential gaps in healthcare needs of Asians, and to opportunities where local public health efforts could help increase these populations' access to cardiovascular disease-related health and social services.

Reasons why low-income people in urban areas do not drink tap water.

BACKGROUND: Despite its higher cost and potential environmental effect compared with those of tap water, bottled water consumption has been increasing over the past decade, especially in low-income communities in which children are at a higher risk of developing caries. METHODS: The authors used a systematic sequential sampling design for the Water Consumption Survey to collect information about water consumption beliefs and practices from clients attending 4 public health centers in Los Angeles County (LAC). The authors used health belief model constructs to examine why some low-income residents in LAC do not drink tap water. RESULTS: From October through December 2013, 1,230 participants completed the Water Consumption Survey (86% response rate); the authors included 1,171 participants in the final analysis. Hispanic and African-American participants accounted for the largest proportions (38% and 37%, respectively). Overall, 48% of participants reported drinking tap water daily compared with 58% who reported drinking bottled water daily. The health belief model construct of perceived health risks (that is, perceived threats) significantly predicted why survey participants did not drink tap water. Other results revealed several misconceptions about tap water fluoridation and differences in beliefs about tap water safety according to income level. CONCLUSIONS: Fluoridated tap water is a low-cost, ecologically friendly resource that provides health benefits seldom found in bottled water. However, mistrust about the quality and safety of tap water may make those in low-income communities more vulnerable to the effects of not receiving adequate fluoride and thus at higher risk of developing caries. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: Future interventions should encourage tap water use by dispelling misconceptions and educating low-income people in urban areas of LAC about the health benefits of fluoridated tap water and the safety of its sources. In addition, patient encounters could be an opportunity for pediatric dentists, general dentists, and other health care providers to reinforce the health benefits of tap water fluoridation and its use.

Self-Reported Interest to Participate in a Health Survey if Different Amounts of Cash or Non-Monetary Incentive Types Were Offered.

The objective of this study was to assess monetary and non-monetary factors that can influence the decision to participate in a future health survey. A questionnaire was administered to eligible, low-income participants (n = 1502) of the 2012 Los Angeles County Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (LAHANES-II). Multivariable regression analyses were performed to describe factors potentially associated with future intent to participate in similar survey designs. The results of the survey suggest that, overall, female participants had a greater interest in participating under a variety of incentive scenarios. Compared to the 25-34 age group, older participants (35-44, 45-84) reported more interest to participate if $10 cash [prepaid gift/debit card], a coupon for product/travel, or a small item [e.g., granola bar, t-shirt, pen] was offered, whereas younger participants (18-24) reported greater interest for $25 cash or a coupon for product/travel. Non-Whites, when compared to Whites/Non-Hispanics, reported greater interest to participate if any of the incentives was offered. High school graduates, when compared to those with some college education, reported greater interest to participate if $10 cash, a small item, or a lottery ticket was offered. Presence of two or more chronic conditions increased interest while concerns about participation in LAHANES-II was associated with reduced interest to participate in future health-related surveys. The results suggest that both incentives and non-monetary considerations (e.g., personal concerns about participating and individual level characteristics) can influence the decision to participate in health-related surveys and offer insights into strategies that can improve response rates for these assessments that are often used to inform community planning.

Application techniques for plaster of paris back slab, resting splint, and thumb spica using ridged reinforcement.

Immobilization of fractures with plaster of Paris is a mainstay of management of stable, nondisplaced fractures not requiring fixation. However, application techniques can be variable and are often ineffective after the patient is discharged because of weakness and wear of the plaster. This can lead to displacement of fractures and inadequate analgesia. We describe a simple, inexpensive, effective technique to ensure plaster strength and immobilization.