The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66098

Elisa V. Bandera, MD, PhD, The Cancer Institute of New Jersey and School of Public Health, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, 335 George St., Liberty Plaza, suite 3700, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, 732-235-9874, elisa.bandera@umdnj.edu and Lisa E. Paddock, MPH, Division of Epidemiology, Environmental and Occupational Health, New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, P.O. Box 369, 3635 Quakerbridge Road, Trenton, NJ 08625-0369.

Despite national campaigns promoting healthy diets and physical activity for the prevention of cancer and other chronic diseases, data from the BRFSS indicate fruit and vegetable consumption is low, while the prevalence of overweight and obesity, and physical inactivity is high among New Jersey residents. Reaching the objectives outlined in Healthy New Jersey 2010 appears to be a challenge, particularly for certain minority groups, among whom expected percent changes are high. The main objective of this project was to develop a database of nutrition and physical activity programs in New Jersey to (1) provide baseline information of current activities, (2) identify program gaps and overlaps to issue public health recommendations, and (3) facilitate dissemination of successful programs. We conducted a statewide survey of community leaders, industries, hospitals, academic programs, private and public health agencies, and voluntary associations. A questionnaire was developed and distributed by email to various relevant Internet mailing lists and individuals, as well as by regular mail. All the eligible responses were included in our Resource Guide. It will also be posted on the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services website. The Resource Guide includes information on physical activity and nutrition programs and is organized by county. Although the database is still being updated, our preliminary results seem to indicate a need for programs targeting minority populations and including culturally appropriate interventions so that the Healthy New Jersey 2010 goals can be attained.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to:
• Recognize the link between diet and cancer prevention.
• Identify available data sources to assess public health nutrition needs in his/her state and populations that need to be targeted.
• Apply the methodology described here to develop a database of nutrition and physical activity programs (or other health promotion programs) to his/her own community or state.

Related Web page: www.state.nj.us/health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.