7 minute read
Project Overview
Project Summary
Human health, particularly among marginalized and vulnerable populations, is severely threatened by climate change and the social determinants of health that impede access to resources, opportunities, services, and healthcare that erode the quality of life. Gulf Coast communities face additional health risks and disparities due to environmental factors, including air pollution. To address these issues, we proposed to investigate the environmental and social determinants of chronic health conditions (e.g., asthma and cancer risks) in the Beaumont-Port Arthur Region of Jefferson County, Texas.
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The project aims to identify critical social determinants of health (SDOH) using community-based participatory research. The project will examine the impact of industrial pollution from petrochemical plants on the high cancer and asthma rates of the region. Community-driven research activities include air monitoring and health needs assessment data collection training to identify SDOH affecting health and healthcare needs, as well as access to preventive care in these at-risk communities. The project will employ a mixed-methodological approach that combines quantitative and qualitative data to inform socioenvironmental policies addressing health disparities.
The project's interdisciplinary approach has the potential to develop innovative strategies for addressing the health disparities associated with climate change and environmental degradation that will result in enhanced health equity for vulnerable populations and the strengthening of existing public health data systems. Project outcomes will inform policy decisions and the design of interventions to mitigate and reduce environmental health burdens and risks, such as asthma and cancer, and contribute to global efforts to address environmental injustices as a structural public health issue.
Major Themes Of The Project
The project will cover spatial and social determinants of health in Beaumont and Port Arthur, Texas, with the goal of improving public health data systems in the areas. Specifically, our community-driven project will cover air pollution, health care, and health outcomes through a community participatory research approach that will engage the people of the regions.
WHO IS SPONSORING THE PROJECT?
The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) co-sponsored the project.
WHO ARE THE PARTNERS OF THE PROJECT?
Overview:
Sign up as a monitoring coordinator!
Become a Monitoring Coordinator for Our Gulf Research Air Monitoring Campaign
Our groundbreaking air monitoring campaign is looking for two dedicated monitoring coordinators, one in Beaumont and one in Port Arthur, to play a crucial role in our community-driven initiative. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about environmental science, keen on logistical management, and looking to make a tangible difference in the community.
Campaign:
Duration: May 2024 to March 2025.
Locations: 60 targeted sites across Beaumont and Port Arthur. On average, each of you will be responsible for 2-4 monitoring sites.
Frequency: Monitoring conducted eight times at each location across 8 rounds (4 rounds from May to September 2024 and 4 rounds from October 2024 to March 2025).
Key Responsibilities:
Inventory Management: Oversee the inventory of air monitoring devices, ensuring all equipment is labeled and properly documented.
Logistical Coordination: Facilitate the collection and distribution of two types of air monitors, managing the logistics from a central storage location to various monitoring sites. Coordinate closely with and co-manage ~30 recruited Community Researchers, who will conduct field monitoring activities.
Communication: Serve as the primary contact for Tianjun Lu (tianjunlu@uky.edu) and Ayodeji Iyanda (aeiyanda@pvamu.edu), addressing logistical issues and ensuring a smooth operation throughout the monitoring period.
Shipping and Handling: Manage the shipment of used Type 1 air monitors (summa canisters) back to the laboratory, maintaining efficiency and timeliness.
Data Management: Co-oversee the data from air monitors to the campaign’s data sharing platform, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Operational Support: Handle additional tasks to support the campaign’s objectives, demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills.
What We Are Looking For:
Residents of Beaumont or Port Arthur with a commitment to their community's environmental health.
Strong organizational skills with an ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
Effective communication skills for coordinating with team members and addressing logistical challenges.
A bachelor’s degree is REQUIRED
Ability to work independently and in a team environment, demonstrating leadership and initiative.
What You Will Gain:
Impact: Play a key role in a critical environmental health initiative that will directly benefit the Beaumont and Port Arthur communities.
Experience: Gain valuable experience in project coordination, logistical management, and environmental monitoring.
Network: Work closely with environmental scientists, community researchers, and local stakeholders, building a network of professional contacts.
Compensation: Receive a $4,800 stipend for your participation throughout the project period. The stipend will be paid in two installments.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join us in this pioneering campaign to map air quality and protect the health of our communities. Your involvement is key to our success! For more information and to apply, please contact Ayodeji Iyanda (aeiyanda@PVAMU.edu). Application Deadline: 05/10/2024.
Application Link: https://pvamu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a5UQ0ZUZa40HoAC
Sign up as a community researcher!
Join Our Gulf Research Air Monitoring Campaign
Why Join?
Engage in vital community-based environmental monitoring campaigns.
Collect outdoor air quality data in Beaumont and Port Arthur.
Contribute to a project with significant community impact.
Campaign Overview:
Duration: May 2024 to March 2025.
Locations: 60 targeted sites across Beaumont and Port Arthur. On average, each of you will be responsible for 2-4 monitoring sites.
Frequency: Monitoring conducted eight times at each location across 8 rounds (4 rounds from May to September 2024 and 4 rounds from October 2024 to March 2025).
What Will You Do?
Install and Retrieve Devices: Set up and collect air monitoring devices at designated locations.
Collaborate: Work closely with a monitoring coordinator and be an integral part of a community research team.
Commit: Ensure comprehensive data collection by participating in all eight scheduled monitoring rounds.
Each Monitoring Round: Day 1: Installing one Type 1 air monitor and one Type 2 air monitor at each designated site (outside of a home). Day 2: Picking up the Type 1 air monitor 24 hours post-installation and handover to the city's monitoring coordinator.
Requirements:
Ability to attend all monitoring sessions and handle equipment (~6 lbs).
Residency in or ability to travel to Beaumont or Port Arthur.
What's in It for You?
Compensation: Receive a $1,920 stipend for your participation throughout the project period. The stipend will be paid in two installments.
Training: Gain comprehensive training on monitoring technology and data collection.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join us in this pioneering campaign to map air quality and protect the health of our communities. Your involvement is key to our success! For more information and to apply, please contact Ayodeji Iyanda (aeiyanda@PVAMU.edu).
Application Deadline: 05/10/2024.
Application Link: https://pvamu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a5UQ0ZUZa40HoAC
Sign up as a participating household!
Join Our Gulf Research Air Monitoring Campaign
Why Join?
Our air quality affects health, quality of life, and the environment. By hosting two air monitors at your property, you're contributing valuable data to help us understand and improve air quality in Beaumont and Port Arthur.
Your participation is crucial in this community-driven initiative to map air quality and make informed decisions for a healthier future.
How It Works:
Installation: A trained community researcher will install two small air monitoring devices in an outdoor area of your property, such as the backyard, front yard, or porch. There will be no need for the researcher to enter your home.
Monitoring Devices: The devices include: Type 1 Air Monitor: Measures specific air quality indicators over a 24-hour period. Type 2 Air Monitor: Provides continuous air quality data over a longer period (up to 10 months).
Safety and Privacy: The installation process is quick, non-intrusive, and respects your privacy and property. Monitors are unobtrusive and designed to operate silently and efficiently without your input.
All community researchers are trained professionals who will follow strict safety and privacy protocols.
Duration:
The two monitoring devices will be installed from May 2024 to March 2025: The type 1 air monitor will be monitored for 24 hours, and the Type 2 air monitor for the entire campaign.
What We Need from You:
Permission to install the monitors on your property and access to retrieve or maintain the equipment as necessary. No household members must be present during installation or retrieval if access is provided.
Monitoring process: There is a total of 8 monitoring rounds. Each monitoring round: Day 1: Two community researchers will install one Type 1 air monitor and one Type 2 air monitor at your property (e.g., porch, yard). Day 2: Picking up the Type 1 air monitor 24 hours post-installation. The Type 2 air monitor will be maintained on your property by the end of the campaign.
WIFI and power outlet: Your WIFI information and power outlet will be provided to connect the Type 2 air monitor.
What You Will Gain:
Community Impact: Play a pivotal role in a critical environmental health initiative.
Acknowledgment: We will acknowledge your valuable contribution to project reports and community briefings (unless you prefer to remain anonymous).
Compensation: Receive a $600 stipend for participating in two installments.
Interested in Participating?
Join your neighbors in contributing to a healthier Beaumont and Port Arthur. If you’re interested in hosting an air monitor or want more information, please contact Ayodeji Iyanda (aeiyanda@PVAMU.edu). Application Deadline: 05/10/2024.
Application Link: https://pvamu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a5UQ0ZUZa40HoAC
Why Join?
Participate in our Community Health Survey and Interview
Your contribution would help inform knowledge on community needs.
Your participation is crucial in this community-driven initiative to improve public health data systems and make decisions for a healthier future.
How It Works:
Complete a community and health survey using your mobile phone, iPad, or computer.
Do I Qualify?
Participants must be at least 18 years old and reside in Beaumont or Port Arthur.
Duration:
Estimated time to complete the survey is 35-50 minutes.
What You Will Gain:
Community Impact: Play a pivotal role in a critical environmental health initiative.
Acknowledgment: We will acknowledge your valuable contribution to project reports and community briefings (unless you prefer to remain anonymous).
Compensation: Receive a $20 stipend for your participation.
Interested in Participating?
Join your community and contribute to a healthier Beaumont and Port Arthur. If you’re interested in participating in the survey or want more information, please contact Dr. Chiung Chang (cchang2@LAMAR.edu).
Interview/Focus Group
Why Join?
Your story will inspire and inform knowledge on community needs.
Your participation in this community-driven initiative to improve public health needs is crucial.
How It Works:
Qualified individuals will be invited to participate in a one-on-one interview in a secured location or virtually.
Do I Qualify?
Participants must be at least 18 years old and reside in Beaumont or Port Arthur.
Duration:
Estimated time to complete the interview is 40-60 minutes.
What You Will Gain:
Community Impact: Play a pivotal role in a critical environmental health initiative.
Acknowledgment: We will acknowledge your valuable contribution to project reports and community briefings (unless you prefer to remain anonymous).
Compensation: Receive a $100 stipend for your participation.
Interested in Participating?
Join your community and contribute to a healthier Beaumont and Port Arthur. If you’re interested in participating in the Interview or want more information, please contact Dr. Jennifer Erdely (jlerdely@PVAMU.edu).
Application Link: https://pvamu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_a5UQ0ZUZa40HoAC
Contact: Dr. Ayodeji Iyanda at aeiyanda@pvamu.edu (Prairie View A&M University) OR
Dr. Chiung Chang cchang2@lamar.edu (Lamar University)
