Research

Obesogenic Environment Group Research Project         

     

In New Zealand, I studied the features of built environments in order to determine how they could contribute to different rates of obesity. Conducting research in Kelburn and Newton, I also acquired geographic skills, using a city map to construct a sample size of the neighborhood. I gathered data in relation to resources, availability, convenience, and affordability. This was important to identify disparities in environmental factors, which contribute to the obesity epidemic.

(LINK)

 

Ethnohydrology

In New Zealand and Fiji, I collected ethnographic data through individual surveys, which revealed perceptions and experiences of water-related issues from the local population. It was part of the Global Health Summer Abroad Program, along with the Global Ethnohydrology Study directed by Professor Amber Wutich. It was vital to note how the villages and communities obtain their drinking water, and whether or not it is safe to drink, or use recreationally. Although concern was present among the residents, there was lack of knowledge with what causes water-related diseases, and common environmental pollutants. With this being evident within the research, I plan on educating the citizens, especially youth, through pursuing my Global Health degree, and help promote awareness programs, and informative agendas to improve the water-quality all over the world. This research is part of a multi-year, multi-site study which examines the variation of ecological knowledge on water issues within local residents.

 

Stigma and Health             

In New Zealand, I studied the features of built environments in order to determine how they could contribute to different rates of obesity. Conducting research in Kelburn and Newton, I also acquired geographic skills, using a city map to construct a sample size of the neighborhood. I gathered data in relation to resources, availability, convenience, and affordability. This was important to identify disparities in environmental factors, which contribute to the obesity epidemic.

(LINK)