SPH News

WVU Healthcare- Legislative internship opens career path for WVU School of Public Health graduate

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 14:49:48 GMT

Late last year, West Virginia University School of Public Health graduate Janelle Graves of Fayetteville, N.C., was selected for an internship at the West Virginia State Legislature. She was so eager to start that she skipped going home to visit her family for Christmas to find an apartment in Charleston.

WVU Healthcare - WVU researcher takes part in a joint U.S.-Canadian effort to create safer work envi

Thu, 30 May 2013 20:38:42 GMT

Kimberly Rauscher, Sc.D., an assistant professor in the WVU Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, co-edited the report “Health and Safety of Young Workers: Proceedings of a U.S. and Canadian Series of Symposia” with Carol Runyan, Ph.D., M.P.H., professor of epidemiology and director of the Pediatric Injury Prevention, Education and Research Program at the Colorado School of Public Health, John Lewko, Ph.D., of Laurentian University, and Dawn Castillo, M.P.H., of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

WV Public Broadcasting - Appalachian traffic fatality rates higher than in rest of country, study sa

Fri, 24 May 2013 14:50:36 GMT

Appalachian traffic fatality rates higher than in rest of the country, study says. Dr. Matao Zhu, at the WVU Injury Research Control Center, says road quality is a concern.

The Suicide Epidemic - Newsweek

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:43:21 GMT

This spring, suicide news paraded down America’s front pages and social-media feeds, led by a report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which called self-harm “an increasing public health concern.” Although the CDC revealed grabby figures—like the fact that there are more deaths by suicide than by road accident—the effort prompted only a tired spasm of talk about aging baby boomers and life in a recession.

We blew past an even bigger milestone revealed in November, when a study lead by Ian Rockett, an epidemiologist at West Virginia University, showed that suicide had become the leading cause of “injury death” in America. As the CDC noted again this spring, suicide outpaces the rate of death on the road—and for that matter anywhere else people accidentally harm themselves.

Legal Examiner - Texting and Driving Injuries Rise

Wed, 22 May 2013 16:40:48 GMT

As states take measures to keep drivers from texting and talking while driving, a new report from researchers at the West Virginia University School of Public Health concludes that the laws probably aren't having much impact on the number of injuries caused by distracted driving. “Keeping an Eye on Distracted Driving,” appears in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). The paper was co-authored by Jeffrey H. Cohen, M.D., interim dean of the WVU School of Public Health, and Motao Zhu, M.D., Ph.D. Both study public health and safety topics through WVU’s Injury Control Research Center.

SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH: 2013 graduates receive school’s first degrees – Dominion Post

Mon, 20 May 2013 16:34:43 GMT

Friday evening was one of firsts for the School of Public Health.

When R. Constance Wiener was hooded for her Ph.D., she became the school’s first official graduate during its first commencement ceremony.

“It’s an honor and a privilege,” Wiener said about being the first graduate.

ASPH Friday Letter - SOPHAS Site Visits at West Virginia University and Georgia State University

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:47:45 GMT

SOPHAS site visits to introduce the centralized application system to faculty and staff from CEPH-accredited schools and programs continue.

Congratulations

Fri, 17 May 2013 14:36:21 GMT

Congratulations to the inaugural graduates of the Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center School of Public Health!

"Excellence in Academics” awarded to MPH Students

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:54:04 GMT

Congratulations to Alan Keenan and Miheret Yitayew for receiving the 2013 Excellence in Academics award for their work in the MPH Program.

Worker camps from natural gas boom cause headaches for local officials - Mountaineer News Service

Wed, 08 May 2013 18:34:15 GMT

MNS - WVU School of Journalism - The transient nature of the natural gas industry’s labor camps can create concerns for both the communities they encroach on and the laborers themselves, says Mike McCawley, chair of the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences at West Virginia University.

Department of Epidemiology researcher to lead study on relaxation therapies

Wed, 08 May 2013 13:08:38 GMT

Dr. Kim Innes, associate professor of Epidemiology, West Virginia University School of Public Health has been awarded a 3 year grant from the Alzheimers Research and Prevention Foundation to investigate the possible benefits of 2 simple relaxation therapies for improving memory and related outcomes in adults with early memory loss.

Wyoming County Report - Public Health Issues Discussed

Mon, 06 May 2013 17:10:57 GMT

Dr. Michael McCawley of the West Virginia University School of Public Health discussed plans for improving health in Wyoming County with members of the Mullens Ministerial Association.

New Epidemiology Faculty Member

Mon, 06 May 2013 13:47:07 GMT

Dr. David Parker is an associate professor in the Department of Epidemiology in the School of Public Health at West Virginia University. He holds a PhD in epidemiology with a focus on biostatistics and health promotion, education and behavior from the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina, an MA in sociology and a BS in psychology from Georgia Southern University.

Biostatistics Students Receive Internship Opportunities with Major Corporations

Mon, 06 May 2013 13:19:40 GMT

Yohannes Gebremariam has recently accepted a summer internship at the Emmes Corporation, a Contract Research Organization (CRO) in Rockville, MD, and Mark Riffon has recently been selected as a summer intern in the Pharmacokinetics Drug Metabolism Department at Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Public Health Honorary Inducts New Members

Fri, 03 May 2013 16:02:46 GMT

During the WVU School of Public Health spring banquet on May 3, 11 individuals were inducted into the Gamma Mu Chapter of Delta Omega honorary society. Congratulations to student members Amy Hunter and Kathryn Flack; faculty member Matthew Gurka; alumni members R. Wesley Farr, Somu Chatterjee, Elizabeth Earley, R. Gregory Juckett, Bambi Bevill and Becky Maruca; and honorary members Tom Sims and Bill Reger-Nash.

Interim Chair for the Department of Epidemiology Appointed

Fri, 03 May 2013 13:02:55 GMT

Jefferson C. Frisbee, PhD will serve as the Interim Chair of the Department of Epidemiology until a permanent chair is named. Dr. Frisbee is a tenured Professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology in the WVU School of Medicine, and also serves as Director of the WVU Center for Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences.

The Dominion Post - WVU office earns award for advances

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:29:15 GMT

The WVU Office of Health Services Research (OHSR) is one of two groups in the country to earn an award from the Association of Clinicians for the Underserved (ACU).

OHSR Assistant Director Adam Baus, M.P.H., M.A., accepted the community agency award at the ACU’s Health Information Technology for the Underserved Conference March 8-9 in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Charleston Gazette - EPA C8 guidelines too weak, study says

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 20:45:00 GMT

Dr. Alan Ducatman, a West Virginia University researcher who has studied C8, said the new paper has several limitations, including its focus on a small sample of children.

Grandjean examined C8 impacts on kids in the Faeroe Islands, a fishing community in the Norwegian Sea. The area's marine food diet is associated with intake of C8 and other perfluorinated compounds, or PFCs, and the government-run health-care system there provides a wealth of detailed data making such studies easier to conduct.

But Ducatman also said the new paper adds to previous research that drew similar conclusions about the potential problems with the EPA's C8 advisories.

"This exposure model adds formality to possible implications for water regulations," Ducatman said last week.

The State Journal - Physicians, scientists call for moratorium on mountaintop removal

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 15:33:06 GMT

There is "sufficient documentation" linking mountaintop removal mining to adverse health effects. Until the science is clearer, the report states, "preventative action in the face of uncertainty is warranted." Much of the review focuses on the work of West Virginia University professor Michael Hendryx. The coal industry has made several attempts to rebuke his study informally and through research.

JusticeNewsFlash.com - WVU Study Sheds Light on Child Labor Law Violations and Deaths in North Carol

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 17:35:42 GMT

“From our prior results, we estimate that annually as many as 888,000 youth may be employed in violation of the Hazardous Occupations Orders, the laws that limit the types of jobs and tasks that youth under age 18 can perform,” said Kimberly Rauscher, M.A., Sc.D., lead author of the study and assistant professor in the WVU Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences and faculty affiliate with the WVU Injury Control Research Center.

WVU School of Public Health Dean Serves on National Board

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 17:50:08 GMT

Dr. Gilbert Ramirez, Sr. Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Educational Effectiveness and a professor in Health Policy, Management, and Leadership was elected to the Board of Directors for the National Board of Public Health Examiners. The term is effective immediately for a 4 year period. For more information, please visit the nbphe.org website.

New Public Health Certificate Program offered in Applied Biostatistics

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 16:12:24 GMT

On April 12, 2013, the WVU Board of Governors approved the new certificate program in Applied Biostatistics. The Department of Biostatistics designed the program for those who lack formal training in biostatistics and would like to gain skills needed to understand and apply standard statistical techniques.

The entire curriculum will be available both online and in-person (live), thus being accessible to individuals from a variety of backgrounds, locations, and experiences. The program will take advantage of existing course technology where courses are taught in a synchronous fashion in which the instructor lectures in-class, and the lecture (along with associated PowerPoint slides or other files, such as SAS programs) is broadcast online. While the lecture is available live during the lecture itself, the video or audio of the lecture is archived and available on the course for access at any time. All course notes, homework, programs, etc. are available online, and the instructor is available in a number of formats (online chat, email, phone) to accommodate distance-learning students.

Individuals who would be interested in such a Certificate include clinical and translational researchers at varying levels of their career (faculty, fellows, residents, basic scientists) as well as public health practitioners, in the state of West Virginia or beyond. Interested individuals in the program should have a desire to be more self-sufficient with their research, specifically being able to know basic study design principles, analyze their data, and interpret their results.

WVU Researcher Dr. Thomas Bias to Lead Evaluation of West Virginia Health Insurance Marketplace

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 16:23:23 GMT

The West Virginia University Health Research Center at the West Virginia University School of Public Health, in collaboration with the Health Policy Division of the West Virginia Offices of the Insurance Commissioner, will implement a five-year evaluation of the implementation, impact, and outcomes of the West Virginia Health Insurance Marketplace, a key element of the United States Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

School of Public Health MPH students Participate in County Drill

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:33:15 GMT

On March 27th, four West Virginia University School of Public Health students participated in a recent point-of-dispensing (POD) drill held by the Monongalia County Health Department.

Charleston Gazette - Coal-backed studies evoke controversy

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:43:09 GMT

A two-year-old, $15 million coal industry project to fund research on mining's health, environmental and economic impacts is beginning to produce results. New papers have been published, conference presentations are being delivered, and a weeklong symposium is scheduled for later this month. So far, the published studies have not disproved previous work that linked mountaintop removal to water pollution, deforestation and the risk of serious illnesses.
Company-backed reports are pointing out some potential flaws in earlier research. They also are generating questions of their own, in part because industry's role in funding the work has not been clearly disclosed.

A third ARIES-funded paper, by researchers at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Virginia, examined recent studies that linked living near mountaintop-removal mining to increased risks of serious illnesses and premature death. That paper criticized existing work on the subject, complaining that it was produced mostly by WVU's Michael Hendryx or researchers working with Hendryx, and said that more studies by others were needed to confirm or disprove the findings.

FOX21 (Salisbury, MD)- Austin Accident Lawyer At The Bob Richardson Law Firm Joins Researchers' Cal

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 13:30:52 GMT

“And yet we still see people driving down the road with their eyes, hands and minds on their cell phone instead of where they need to be, focused on driving.” Cotton cited a recent paper published by West Virginia University researchers in The Journal of the American Medical Association, which found that distracted driving is becoming a bigger problem despite passage of laws aimed at curtailing the dangerous behavior.

The authors of “Keeping an Eye on Distracted Driving,” Dr. Jeffery H. Coben and Dr. Motao Zhu, called on the federal government to set new standards which would require the development of technology to curb distractions, including devices that would prevent the use of handheld cell phones in moving cars. The authors also say they expect the problem to get worse, in part because new, inexperienced drivers increasingly see texting and other electronic communication as a major part of their lives.

Independent Herald- Health initiative targets Wyoming County

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 01:30:12 GMT

A health initiative from the West Virginia University School of Public Health will take aim at Wyoming County.

“We are here,” said Dr. Mike McCawley of the School of Public Health.

The Southern West Virginia Lifestyles Project (SWVL) will use a core group of local residents to spread the word about healthy living. The WVU schools of Nursing, Pharmacy, Dentristy and Medicine, among others, will be assisting with the project

Medical Express - Study finds adolescents working in dangerous environments despite child labor laws

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:00:39 GMT

A recently published study by a researcher in the West Virginia University School of Public Health found that more than half of young worker deaths in North Carolina resulted from employers violating the child labor laws.

"This is in line with prior work we have done on child labor violations on a national level," said Kimberly Rauscher, M.A., Sc.D., lead author of the study and assistant professor in the WVU Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences and faculty affiliate with the WVU Injury Control Research Center. "From our prior results, we estimate that annually as many as 888,000 youth may be employed in violation of the Hazardous Occupations Orders, the laws that limit the types of jobs and tasks that youth under age 18 can perform."

Charleston Gazette - Monongalia healthiest, McDowell least healthy, according to new health rankings

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Charleston Gazette - The report released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and University of Wisconsin researchers ranks counties by several health factors such as smoking, drinking, obesity, premature deaths, and other areas including education, access to health care and unemployment.

New Faculty Join HPML

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:33:51 GMT

After a highly competitive search process, the Department of Health Policy, Management, and Leadership is proud to welcome two new faculty. We are fortunate to have Dr. Warren Eller joining us May 1, 2013, and Dr. Lauri Andress joining us June 1, 2013, as part of our team! It is with great excitement and anticipation that HPML welcomes them.

Charleston Gazette - Mining counties have higher death rates, study says

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Charleston Gazette -Over the past five years, WVU researcher Michael Hendryx and various co-authors have published peer-reviewed studies examining possible links between mountaintop removal and various illnesses. The work has linked health and coal-mining data to show, among other things, that residents near mining face a greater risk of cancer, birth defects and premature deaths. Environmental groups have not funded Hendryx, but those groups have seized on his findings to argue that mountaintop removal isn't just an issue about mining's effects on salamanders, mayflies or isolated mountain streams.

The Verge - Is it time for the US government to disable cellphones in cars?

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:06:51 GMT

Distracted driving continues to pose a major safety risk across the United States, and it's a problem that can't be solved through legislation alone. That's the argument a pair of researchers from West Virginia University made earlier this month, in an essay published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. According to co-author Dr. Jeffrey Coben, the issue stems from two converging phenomena: a proliferation of mobile technology that has only amplified the risks associated with calling or texting while driving, and state-legislated bans that, while well-intentioned, remain difficult to enforce. Coben's proposed solution? In-car technology that would render cellphones inoperable.

WVU Healthcare - Laws, education not enough to curb distracted driving

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 20:00:52 GMT

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Admit it or not, most of us are guilty of having fiddled with a cell phone while behind the wheel. As West Virginia and other states take measures to keep drivers from texting and talking while driving, a new report from researchers at the West Virginia University School of Public Health asserts the laws probably aren’t making much impact on the number of injuries caused by distracted driving.

“Keeping an Eye on Distracted Driving,” appears in the latest issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), released online today. The paper was co-authored by Jeffrey H. Coben, M.D., interim dean of the WVU School of Public Health, and Motao Zhu, M.D., Ph.D. Both study public health and safety topics through WVU’s Injury Control Research Center.

The Dominion Post - Start walking on March 18 for initiative

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 19:10:12 GMT

The Dominion Post - “Walking is one of the best ways to improve your health and quality of life,” said Bill Reger-Nash, EdD, of the WVU School of Public Health. “Our bodies were designed to move. When we sit too much, we tend to become tired, stressed and overweight.

Charleston Daily Mail - Smokers cough up $231 million in taxes

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:00:00 GMT

West Virginia University's School of Public Health released a survey showing that 60 percent of the state's residents favor increasing tobacco taxes to fund public health programs. That's down from 72 percent support just four years ago.

The drop should be alarming to those who lobby year after year for higher taxes on people who use tobacco.

State Journal - Complete Streets at top of AARP's WV legislative agenda

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Christiaan Abildso of the School of Public Health at West Virginia University helped collect data related to injuries and fatalities caused by incomplete street infrastructure. West Virginia has the second highest rate of inactivity in the nation, he said, and the lack of sidewalks and bicycle lanes prevent that statistic from changing.

"What we did was review seven years of data provided by the Division of Highways that come from police reports, collected around the state, to better understand the burden of crashes between motor vehicles and pedestrians and motor vehicles and cyclist," he said. "Complete Streets, as we hear today, is legislation used in many states as a mean to institutionalize and improve pedestrian and cyclist design in areas where the need exists, and usually that need is established using crash data such as what we reviewed."

Associated Press - WVU survey: Public backs higher cigarette taxes

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 14:00:53 GMT

A survey of West Virginia adults shows 60 percent would favor higher cigarette taxes if the revenue would benefit public health.

Forty-three percent back an increase of $2 per pack or more.
The 2012 survey of 2,132 smokers and non-smokers was recently released by researchers at West Virginia University's School of Public Health.

WVU Public Health Students participate in Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training at the M

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 17:49:53 GMT

For two consecutive Saturdays, from eight to five, Public Health students fought five kinds of virtual fires, trained to administer first aid to disaster victims and learned how to recognize signs of a potential terrorist. They also received a crash course in disaster psychology, in order to stabilize victims and move them to a safe location. Most importantly, they effectively learned to become educated members of their local CERT Teams.

New W.Va. smoking numbers: less than previously thought

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 13:19:06 GMT

A new set of data assembled by researchers in West Virginia University’s School of Public Health, in collaboration with the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health’s Division of Tobacco Prevention (WVDTP), suggests just under a quarter of West Virginia adults smoke, which is less than previously believed. The assessment revealed a 23.9 percent overall smoking rate statewide.

Morgantown, WV - Benedum grant allows WVU pharmacy, medicine and dentistry students to become their

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 19:25:32 GMT

“Inter-professional education experiences are a very important component of the way we are training the next generation of West Virginia’s healthcare providers,” Dr. Ross said. “It only makes sense that they will learn and practice healthy lifestyles together, too.”

Eventually, Chase’s goal is to bring the remaining health professions schools and programs on board so that all students in the Health Sciences Center are participating.

Anne Cather, M.D., from the School of Medicine, Travis White from the School of Pharmacy, Louise Veselicky, D.D.S., from the School of Dentistry, and Matthew Gurka, Ph.D., from the School of Public Health, are serving as co-investigators on the project’s development, implementation and evaluation.

Huntington Herald-Dispatch WVU Projects land $328K from Benedum Foundation

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 13:42:22 GMT

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation has donated $328,000 toward four projects at West Virginia University.
WVU’s Center for Healthy Practitioners Program, meanwhile, is getting an additional $75,000 to help cross-train health sciences students in disease prevention tactics.
And a $62,000 grant goes to the Southern West Virginia Lifestyles Project in Wyoming County. It’s developing training modules to promote stress reduction, smoking cessation, diet and exercise, prenatal care and adolescent health.

MPH Alumna Becca Fint-Clark honored for her work

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 19:34:05 GMT

Becca Fint-Clark, a 4-H Youth Development agent in the Monongalia County Extension Office, was honored recently for her work with the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents. Fint-Clark received the WVU Extension Service’s 2012 Professional Improvement Excellence Award during the WVU-ES Appreciation and Accolades Luncheon at WVU Jackson’s Mill State 4-H Camp near Weston

WBOY-TV Electronic Cigarettes Gaining Popularity

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 13:18:25 GMT

"It was rushed to market without any kind of clinical trials or without any kind of toxicity testing that we would normally have for a food or a drug product released in this country," said Catherine Whitworth, a tobacco treatment specialist at WVU Hospitals. "But it was hurried to the market, and so what we know is that, we don't know a whole lot about the safety or the effectiveness."

Beckley Register-Herald - Coalfield environmental health project focuses on communities

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 14:15:18 GMT

Beckley Register-Herald - Surface mining impact, water quality addressed
A recent study by Dr. Michael Hendryx, for example, showed that deaths from cardiovascular disease are significantly higher in mining areas, particularly those near mountaintop removal sites. Hendryx, one of the speakers in the Coalfield Environmental Health Project series, has also studied rates of cancer, birth defects and microvascular dysfunction in coalfield residents.

WTRF - New federal funds to examine texting and driving laws

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 14:51:59 GMT

New federal funding has been awarded to WVU to examine the effectiveness of 'texting and driving' law

WBOY-TV - Health Experts: Quitting Smoking Benefits Your Wallet, Family, and Personal Health

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 13:55:52 GMT

WBOY-TV - "I think the first step is to set a quit date, which most have set for yesterday, and to reach out and get support," said Jayne Kinney a tobacco treatment specialist at WVU's School of Public Health.

WVU Health Report - Smoking Ban Study

Wed, 26 Dec 2012 12:57:08 GMT

Smoking Ban Study WVU Health Report
Laws that ban smoking in -public places have lead to fewer heart attacks, strokes and respiratory heart disease hospitalizations. That's the conclusion of a recent analysis of 45 studies on the effects of smoking bans across the country.

The analysis appeared in the American Heart Association journal "Circulation"

Wired - Careful out There, Guys: Male Pedestrians More Likely to Die in Car Accidents

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 18:54:33 GMT

Wired - The study, conducted by Dr. Motao Zhu of the West Virginia University School of Public Health, analyzed traffic data from 2008 and 2009 and found that males pedestrians are 2.3 times more likely to die after being hit by a vehicle.

The State Journal - Study: males hit by vehicles twice as likely to die

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 20:54:54 GMT

The State Journal - Motao Zhu, M.D., Ph.D., an assistant professor at the West Virginia University School of Public Health and Injury Control Research Center, led a group of researchers in the analysis of U.S. travel and traffic data from the years 2008 and 2009.

theintelligencer.net - Effects on Air Quality Studied

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 21:08:50 GMT

theintelligencer.net - "We want to eventually be able to look at whether there are health effects that are associated with living near a Marcellus (Shale) gas drilling site while it's in operation," said Michael McCawley, chairman of the West Virginia University School of Public Health.

WTRF (Wheeling, WV) Researchers Begin To Study Air Quality Near Ohio County Drilling Sites

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 20:45:32 GMT

Dr. Michael McCawley of the School of Public Health, Department of Occupational & Environmental Health at West Virginia University, will be working locally with Dr. Somu Chattejee, Regional Epidemiologist from the Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department and Ohio County Health Officer Dr. William Mercer.

wtrf.com - Researchers Begin To Study Air Quality Near Ohio County Drilling Sites

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 21:18:18 GMT

wtrf.com - Dr. Michael McCawley of the School of Public Health, Department of Occupational & Environmental Health at West Virginia University, will be working locally with Dr. Somu Chattejee, Regional Epidemiologist from the Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department and Ohio County Health Officer Dr. William Mercer.

WTOV9 - Wheeling-Ohio Co. Health Dept. to monitor air quality around gas-drilling pads

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 21:12:33 GMT

WVTOV9 - Officials with West Virginia University's School of Public Health said the equipment will send information back on the air quality via wireless signal to their systems at WVU.

School of Public Health MPH Student Janelle Graves awarded Legislative Internship

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 20:52:33 GMT

The West Virginia State Legislature has awarded Janelle Graves a Robert W. Burk, Jr. Internship that will begin January 3 and extend to the end of April 2013.

Quality Specialist at Roane General Hospital

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:22:35 GMT

Heather Downey, MPA, MPH, MLS(ASCP) accepted as a Quality Specialist at Roane General Hospital in Spencer, WV.

MSNBC - Study links relaxation method to reduced hot flashes

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:06:30 GMT

MSNBC - The frequency of those events in half during the three-month trial, researchers say. Women in a comparison group that got no treatments experienced little change in their symptoms. "The results tell you that, yes, this seems to work," said Kim Innes of West Virginia University, who has studied mind-body therapies for menopause symptoms but was not involved in the new study.

Dominion Post - Agency hopes to raise awareness

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 15:35:18 GMT

Dominion Post - Board member Gilbert Ramirez said students at WVU’s School of Public Health could help by studying specific health indicators — such as the number of STDs reported — so the health department has a better idea of what the county’s needs are. He is looking into the possibility.

Dominion Post - More STDs Seen - Agency Hopes to Raise Awareness

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 14:00:22 GMT

Medical Express (United Kingdom) - WVU study shows exercise can improve bone density in postmenopaus

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 20:27:17 GMT

A study by researchers in the West Virginia University School of Public Health and the University of Colorado shows that exercise can improve bone density in postmenopausal women.

MedicalXpress - Study shows exercise can improve bone density in postmenopausal women

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 15:32:23 GMT

MedicalXpress - Medical Xpress (United Kingdom) A study by researchers in the West Virginia University School of Public Health and the University of Colorado shows that exercise can improve bone density in postmenopausal women.

WVU study shows exercise can improve bone density in postmenopausal women

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 15:20:46 GMT

A study by researchers in the West Virginia University School of Public Health and the University of Colorado shows that exercise can improve bone density in postmenopausal women.

Food Consumer - Passive smoking can cause breast cancer

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 15:22:03 GMT

Food Consumer - J. Luo of Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia and colleagues conducted the study and found that of women who had never smoked, those who had intensive passive smoking were almost 32 percent more likely to develop breast cancer, compared to those who were not exposed to passive smoking.

The Intelligencer - WVNCC Going Cold Turkey College’s ban on smoking takes effect Thursday

Wed, 14 Nov 2012 13:00:00 GMT

In other matters, Gamble said site selection conducted today will help West Virginia University researchers collect air quality data related to natural gas drilling. Somu Chatterjee, regional epidemiologist based at the health department, is coordinating the effort that involves placing WVU's collection devices on various plots of property. Air quality will be measured in Ohio County, but data may also be collected in Marshall and Brooke counties.
Chatterjee previously said there is ''no air quality data available in the country specifically linked to gas drilling.'' The study will take into account other things that may impact air quality, such as factories or vehicle exhaust. The data will be collected at various sites and distances from wells and at all phases of the gas drilling process. The air monitoring equipment was designed by Michael McCawley, associate research professor at the WVU Department of Occupational & Environmental Health Sciences. Data collected by the equipment can be checked via computer in Morgantown.

WDTV - Report: Suicide Leading Cause Of Injury Deaths

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 18:39:07 GMT

WDTV - "Suicide is now the leading cause of death ahead of unintentional motor vehicle accidents," Doctor Ian Rockett, professor in the West Virginia University School of Public Health, said. "It's highly significant because I believe that suicide is seriously undercounted. I think that suicide is a bigger problem than the data leads us to believe."

DrugWatch.com - Study: Diabetes Patients Are More Likely to Develop Lung Cancer

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 18:28:14 GMT

DrugWatch.com - Information about diabetes treatment was self-reported. J. Luo and his colleagues concluded that the increased risk did not apply to women with untreated diabetes or the length of time a patient had suffered from the disease.

MSNBC - Study links relaxation method to reduced hot flashes (1)

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 15:06:59 GMT

MSNBC - "The results tell you that, yes, this seems to work," said Kim Innes of West Virginia University, who has studied mind-body therapies for menopause symptoms but was not involved in the new study.

FoodConsumer.org - Diabetes, insulin treatments boost lung cancer risk

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 18:35:18 GMT

FoodConsumer.org - One study led by J. Luo of Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, West Virginia University in Morgantown, WV showed women with self-reported treated diabetes mellitu stype 2 were 27 percent more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer, compared with those who did not have the disease.

Eager Ambassador for Public Health

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 19:54:59 GMT

Amber Brown is passionate about public health, women’s wellness, football and theater.

WBOY.com Group works to ‘Change the Future’ of West Virginia

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 14:20:00 GMT

To make an impact on individuals, we need the individual to make a change and to see that change,"" said Tom Bias, from the Health Research Center of West Virginia University's School of Public Health.

The Charleston Gazette - Lawsuits target health impacts of mountaintop removal mining

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Two new lawsuits filed in West Virginia and Kentucky allege the Obama administration is ignoring a growing body of science that links living near mountaintop removal operations to greater risk of serious health impacts, including cancer and birth defects. West Virginia University researcher Michael Hendryx and others have co-authored more than 20 studies that have found generally higher rates of health problems, and specifically rates of cancer and birth defects, among residents living near mountaintop removal operations in Appalachia.

Dominion Post - Dr. Gilbert Ramirez appointed to Monongalia County Board of Health

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Dominion Post - Also Wednesday, commissioners selected a new member of the Monongalia County Board of Health (BOH). Commissioners voted, 2-1, to appoint Dr. Gilbert Ramirez to the board. Ramirez is a senior associate dean for academic affairs and educational effectiveness for WVU’s School of Public Health. His term will expire in 2017.

PR Web- DoctorsHealthPress.com Reports on Study; These Foods May Be Ruining Sleep

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:00:00 GMT

The Doctors Health Press, a publisher of various natural health newsletters, books, and reports, including the popular online Doctors Health Press e-Bulletin, is reporting on a study done by researchers from West Virginia University. They are reporting that there may be a link between breathing problems while sleeping and high blood levels of uric acid—formed when the body breaks down purines that are found in organ meats and some fish.

State Journal - WVU: Air pollution at mountaintop mines may cause heart trouble

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:00:00 GMT

A published study by researchers at the West Virginia University School of Medicine and School of Public Health is the first of its kind to suggest that exposure to air pollution particles from mountaintop mining sites may impair blood vessels' ability to dilate, which may lead to cardiovascular disease.

New Director for OLLI

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 14:53:57 GMT

Angela Faulkner-Van Deysen, MPA, FLE, PCED,CPM is the new Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at West Virginia University.

Teen anti-smoking groups seeing growth

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 14:00:00 GMT

The N.O.T. program was developed at West Virginia University and has since gone international. It is sponsored by the West Virginia Department of Education and West Virginia Division of Tobacco Prevention.

Autumn’s arrival shouldn’t halt exercise routine

Sun, 30 Sep 2012 12:00:00 GMT

Don’t let fall put the fail in your fitness routine, say local exercise experts. Changing leaves and cooler temperatures may be looming over your outdoor workout, not to mention the impending holiday feasts, but in reality, your exercise routine doesn’t need to fall by the wayside as we enter autumn, said Bill Reger-Nash, professor emeritus of the School of Public Health at WVU.

The Daily Athenaeum - City, University initiative set to prevent DUIs

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 19:39:52 GMT

The Daily Athenaeum - West Virginia University’s School of Public Health and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department recently teamed up to enforce the Zero Tolerance Driving Initiative in an attempt to stop underage drinking as well as drinking and driving.

Boise Weekly - New Data: Suicide Kills More Americans Than Car Crashes

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 15:05:30 GMT

Boise Weekly - New Data: Suicide Kills More Americans Than Car Crashes

NYPost.com - Suicide Count Tops Car Deaths

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

More Americans deliberately kill themselves than die in car crashes, a new study reports.

Dailymail.com - More Americans now commit suicide than are killed in car crashes as miserable econom

Sat, 22 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Suicide is the cause of more deaths than car crashes, according to an alarming new study. The number of people who commit suicide in the U.S. has drastically increased while deaths from car accidents have dropped, making suicide the leading cause of injury death.

Suicides via falls or poisoning have risen significantly and experts fear that there could be many more unaccounted for, particularly in cases of overdose.

The Poughkeepsie Journal - Suicide now kills more Americans than car crashes, research finds

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 19:42:51 GMT

The Poughkeepsie Journal - "Suicides are terribly undercounted; I think the problem is much worse than official data would lead us to believe," said study author Ian Rockett, a professor of epidemiology at West Virginia University.

WebMD - Suicide, Not Car Crashes, #1 Cause of Injury Death

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 19:03:24 GMT

WebMD - Suicide has overtaken car crashes as the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S. “Comprehensive and sustained traffic safety measures have apparently substantially diminished the motor vehicle traffic mortality rate, and similar attention and resources are needed to reduce the burden of other injury,” researcher Ian Rockett, PhD, MPH of West Virginia University and colleagues write in the American Journal of Public Health.

health.usnews.com - Suicide Now Kills More Americans Than Car Crashes: Study

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 04:00:00 GMT

More Americans now commit suicide than die in car crashes, making suicide the leading cause of injury deaths, according to a new study.

SAPH meets with several public health agencies

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 12:09:06 GMT

As many students and fans of the WVU Football team traveled to Washington, D.C., to watch the Mountaineers face the James Madison University Bulldogs, students from WVU's new School of Public Health used the opportunity to achieve a little more.

wvgazette.com - Hawks Nest tunnel workers' gravesite consecrated

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:27:20 GMT

wvgazette.com - Dwight Harshbarger, an adjunct professor of social and behavioral sciences at West Virginia University, spoke and read passages from his novel, "Witness at Hawks Nest," at the Hawks Nest Memorial Committee monument dedication.

sundaygazettemail.com - W.Va. project called 'model for rural America'

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:23:38 GMT

sundaygazettemail.com - A top Centers for Disease Control official called West Virginia's "Change the Future WV" project on Monday "a model for rural America in the effort to end the obesity and chronic disease epidemics.

newsreview.com - Common chemical, heart disease linked

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:34:56 GMT

newsreview.com - Dr. Anoop Shankar, the study’s lead researcher, noted the findings aren’t conclusive because people with heart disease may develop kidney problems as a result, making it more difficult to clear chemicals like PFOA from the blood.

The Dominion Post - Buzzkill to debut at checkpoint

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 14:07:54 GMT

The Dominion Post - Ron Rittenhouse/The Dominion Post Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department Sgt. John Kisner and Lova Jaros, program manager for WVU’s Zero Tolerance Driving Initiative, test out the Buzzkill Flashlight, which can detect the presence of even low levels of alcohol in the air.

The Intelligencer - Pollution Data To Be Collected

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 19:07:44 GMT

The Intelligencer - The Wheeling-Ohio County Health Department plans to help West Virginia University researchers collect air quality data related to natural gas drilling. The data will be collected at various sites and distances from wells and at all phases of the gas drilling process. The air monitoring equipment that will be used was designed by Michael McCawley, associate research professor at the WVU Department of Occupational & Environmental Health Sciences. Data collected by the equipment can be checked via computer in Morgantown.

WDTV - Police Use New Flashlight To Detect Underage Drinking

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 14:11:00 GMT

WDTV - Some police departments in Monongalia County have a new tool to crack down on underage drinking.

Angels to roam High Street on Thursday

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 19:54:14 GMT

“We have a responsibility to educate our students about alcohol, the dangers if binge drinking, safety, and reinforcing the concept of not driving while drinking and not riding with someone who is drinking,” Ruth Kershner, Ed.D., interim assistant dean and alcohol educator for the School of Public Health, said.

Dual-degree M.P.H. students eligible for scholarships

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 15:49:37 GMT

Thanks to funding recently received by the School of Public Health's Office for Public Health Practice, all students enrolled in the dual-degree Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) programs are eligible for scholarships.

The Daily Athenaeum - WVU study finds dangers in household chemical

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 15:19:06 GMT

The Daily Athenaeum - A West Virginia University professor Anoop Shankar, Chair of the WVU Department of Epidemiology and lead author of the study, has done a cross-sectional study with the chemical perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

The State Journal - Health effects near coal and gas sites documented, discussed

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 15:15:20 GMT

The State Journal - About 95 attended the half-day conference that included panelists Michael Hendryx, professor in West Virginia University's School of Public Health; Jill Kriesky of the Graduate School of Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh; and Wheeling Jesuit University aquatic biologist Ben Stout.

Researchers in the Department of Biostatistics receive two grants

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 19:26:27 GMT

Researchers in the Department of Biostatistics receive a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and from the American Heart Association.

WVCTSI Gets Funded

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 19:08:06 GMT

The Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center of West Virginia University has been awarded a $19.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that will be used to address the health issues that most commonly affect West Virginians.

The Times of India - Household chemicals can give you heart disease

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 15:06:06 GMT

The Times of India - Anoop Shankar, M.D., Ph.D., and colleagues from the West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, examined the association between serum (blood) levels of PFOA and the presence of CVD and PAD, a marker of atherosclerosis, in a nationally representative group of adults.

SkyNews.com - Chemical link to heart disease

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 15:03:12 GMT

SkyNews.com - The authors from the West Virginia University School of Public Health said the results contributed to the data emerging on the health effects of perfluoroalkyl chemicals. But the study could not conclude that the chemicals actually caused heart problems, the authors said.

The State Journal - WVU health initiative to kick off in southern W.Va.

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 15:33:50 GMT

The State Journal - Under the leadership of the West Virginia University School of Public Health, a multidisciplinary group of health professionals from several WVU schools is initiating a multi-year effort to help southern West Virginia residents develop and maintain healthy lifestyles.

The Register-Herald - Change the Future promotes exercise

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 20:27:45 GMT

The Register-Herald - Change the Future WV healthy choice event was held at The Resort at Glade Springs. Pictured from left, Ilere Baker, moderator, Sue Childers, Change the Future WV school coordinator, Carrie Brainard, Mid-Ohio Valley Health and Wellness director, Miranda Foutty, Mid-Ohio Valley Wellness coordinator, Luke Moore, WVU Health Research Center, and John Yauch, program manager.

The Dominion Post - Richardson earns degree from WVU

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 20:25:42 GMT

The Dominion Post - Jodi Richardson, daughter of Mike and Diane Richardson, of Star City, graduated from WVU this year with a Master of Public Health. She is enrolled at Mississippi State University’s Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program, Class of 2016.

The Dominion Post - New school vital to public health

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 15:22:21 GMT

The Dominion Post - Fifty is just a number. The number of states in our country. The number that West Virginia ranks among states in many categories.

Simulator to show dangers of driving drunk

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:49:16 GMT

The West Virginia University School of Public Health, the WVU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Pennsylvania D.U.I. Association will host a D.U.I. Simulator event.

WVU researchers receive $444,000 NIH grant

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 13:45:45 GMT

Two researchers in the West Virginia University School of Public Health, George Kelley and Kristi Kelley, have received a $444,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study the effects of exercise on depression in adults with arthritis.

WBOY - School of Public Health Welcomes First Students

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 15:03:30 GMT

WBOY - For the first time in more than 50 years West Virginia University has created a new school and it's one that could help all West Virginians.

The Dominion Post - WVU rolls out school

Sat, 25 Aug 2012 17:43:06 GMT

The Dominion Post - For the first time in 50 years, WVU officially launched a new school.

San Francisco Chronicle - WVU celebrates launch of School of Public Health

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 17:25:47 GMT

San Francisco Chronicle - West Virginia University celebrated the arrival of 179 students and 13 new faculty members Friday at the first school created in more than 50 years, the new School of Public Health.

The Times-Picayune - WVU celebrates launch of School of Public Health

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 13:47:04 GMT

The Times-Picayune - West Virginia University celebrated the arrival of 179 students and 13 new faculty members Friday at the first school created in more than 50 years, the new School of Public Health.

179 students started this week

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 13:30:35 GMT

The new West Virginia University School of Public Health welcomed 179 students for their first week of classes in the first new school to be created at WVU in more than 50 years.

New WVU School of Public Health officially opens

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 13:24:31 GMT

The new West Virginia University School of Public Health welcomed 179 students for their first week of classes in the first new school to be created at WVU in more than 50 years.

The Charleston Gazette - WVU to get $53.1 million in grants

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 16:45:39 GMT

The Charleston Gazette - A $19.6 million grant from the National Institutes of Health will help West Virginia University Health Sciences compete with other institutions for more NIH funding, officials said Wednesday.

The Sacramento Bee - WVU Injury Control Research Center Receives $4.1-Million Grant From The CDC

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 16:28:47 GMT

The Sacramento Bee - The West Virginia University Injury Control Research Center (ICRC) has just been awarded a five-year grant totaling $4.1 million to continue as one of 11 such federally funded centers of excellence for injury prevention research, education and outreach in the nation, according to the funding agency, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The Charleston Gazette - Grants available to groups to promote physical activity

Sat, 04 Aug 2012 17:01:53 GMT

The Charleston Gazette - "This grant program offers communities an opportunity to promote physical activity using social-support strategies. Research has shown that social support is an effective way to increase physical activity." said Nancy O'Hara-Tompkins, of the WVU Prevention Research Center and a West Virginia on the Move board member.

Ironton Tribune - EPA also has responsibility to citizens

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 16:43:50 GMT

ASPH Welcomes WVU as New Associate Member

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 17:57:41 GMT

Last week, ASPH welcomed the West Virginia University School of Public Health as a new associate member school. WVU is now in the process of earning CEPH-accreditation through a two-year, self-study process.

West Virginia Public Broadcasting - Portable air samplers

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 18:21:23 GMT

West Virginia Public Broadcasting - The Horizontal Well Control Act states that the Department of Environmental Protection has to notify the Legislature whether further regulation of air pollution from well sites is needed, taking into account possible impacts to human health and the environment; in an effort to comply, the agency reached out to Michael McCawley.

MPHProgramList.com - 100 Awesome Deans of Public Health

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 15:44:58 GMT

Interim Founding Dean Alan M. Ducatman MD, MSc was listed on MPHProgramList.com's 100 Awesome Deans of Public Health list.

WVU School of Public Health Begins CEPH Accreditation Process

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:04:15 GMT

The new School of Public Health was formed on the foundation of the former WVU School of Medicine Department of Community Medicine, which offered the Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, already accredited by CEPH. “What changes is that we are going through the process of becoming externally accredited as a full school,” Alan M. Ducatman, MD, Interim Founding Dean, said.

The Daily Yonder - Study Finds Toxins From Coal Strip Mines

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 17:49:14 GMT

Four WVU grad programs to offer Yellow Ribbon to student veterans

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 14:52:16 GMT

West Virginia University will begin to offer the Yellow Ribbon program to student military veterans in four graduate programs.

iWatch News - Study finds toxins from mountaintop coal mining sites

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 19:15:46 GMT

Health Impact Project: Advancing Smarter Policies for Healthier Communities

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 20:58:29 GMT

The Health Impact Project: Advancing Smarter Policies for Healthier Communities is calling for proposals.

New studies begin to answer questions about mining, health

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 19:01:13 GMT

The findings, presented at recent academic conferences, add to the results of nearly two dozen West Virginia University papers that found higher levels of health problems -- including cancer and birth defects -- among residents living in the shadow of large-scale surface coal mining.

Dr. Sijin Wen Assistant Professor in the Department of Biostatistics

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 19:58:33 GMT

A brief introduction to the coming Department of Biostatistics faculty member Sijin Wen.

Police work takes mental, physical toll

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 21:22:25 GMT

Police work takes mental, physical toll - researchers from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Virginia University (Dr. Sarah Knox and recent PhD graduate Tara Hartley), Indiana University, and Washington State University.

The Winchester Star - Walking around the clock

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 17:53:33 GMT

The Winchester Star - Medical student and MPH student Nadia Bargouthi was featured in the Winchester Star newspaper article about Relay for Life in Frederick County, VA. She is completing her MPH internship with the American Cancer Society based in Winchester, Virginia.

WDTV.COM 5 News - Professor Celebrates 50th Class for Lifelong Learning Center

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:28:28 GMT

WDTV.COM 5 News - One West Virginia University professor has spent years sharing his love for music with folks in the community, and on Tuesday he celebrated a milestone.

The Dominion Post - Education accessible to all West Virginians

Sun, 08 Jul 2012 17:20:44 GMT

The Dominion Post - Interim Dean of the Emerging School of Public Health Alan Ducatman said that the first goal of the landgrant mission is to educate the college-aged students.

Safety.BLR.com - ICRC findings published

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 18:56:22 GMT

Safety.BLR.com - The findings were published in the journal Annals of Epidemiology by researchers from NIOSH and the Injury Control Research Center at West Virginia University.

Jonathan A. Bond, MPHfield experience work was with BCOPS

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 17:59:37 GMT

The Buffalo Cardio-Metabolic Occupational Police Stress Study (BCOPS) examined police officers’ response to stressors.

The Charleston Gazette - Bill would require federal mountaintop removal health study

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 18:49:16 GMT

The Dominion Post - Two stream groups host Marcellus symposium

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 18:41:05 GMT

The Dominion Post - Dr. Mike McCawley will present information on a novel system he’s developed to monitor air quality around Marcellus drill sites.

WVPubcast - Researchers fear WV children's program doing more harm than good

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 18:36:00 GMT

ACC: ICRC published a paper entitled “Workplace Homicides Among U.S. Women.

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 18:46:35 GMT

ACC - The Injury Control Research Center at West Virginia University published a paper entitled “Workplace Homicides Among U.S. Women."

Science Daily: Painkiller Abuse Linked to Depression, Suicide in College Students

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 14:16:26 GMT

Science Daily - Due to this trend, Western Illinois University Department of Health Sciences Assistant Professor Amanda Divin and her colleague, Keith Zullig, an associate professor in the West Virginia University School of Public Health, recently conducted and published a study that explores non-medical prescription drug use and depressive symptoms in college students.

The Charleston Gazette - Too good?: Marcellus doubts

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 14:32:19 GMT

Saturday Gazette-Mail - Before slurry deal, records outlined Massey pollution

Sat, 09 Jun 2012 14:29:10 GMT

WBOY: Social Workers, Health Care Providers Gather for WVU's Summer Institute on Aging

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 18:00:21 GMT

WBOY - The Summer Institute on Aging is in its 34th year and is co-sponsored by the Center on Aging and the WVU Division of Social Work.

MBRCC: Researcher identifies several new genetic markers for repeat lung cancer

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 17:56:02 GMT

MBRCC - Lan Guo, Ph.D., associate professor at the Cancer Center, is leading research aimed at predicting tumor recurrence to help physicians identify patients whose lung cancer is likely to come back and determine which ones could benefit from chemotherapy.

Prescription Drug Abuse Coupled With Depression & Suicide More Likely Among Young Women

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 18:50:40 GMT

The research article is titled: "The Association Between Non-medical prescription Drug Use, Depressive Symptoms, and Suicidality Among College Students." The study was conducted by researchers from West Virginia University School of Public Health and Western Illinois University using data from the fall 2008 American College Health Association National College Health Assessment which was collected from 26,600+ students attending 40 U.S. college campuses.

WVU School of Public Health plans study

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 18:46:46 GMT

That kind of data will be the product of the newly organized West Virginia University School of Public Health.

Dr. Alan Ducatman, interim dean of the school which officially begins its work July 1, visited with county residents Tuesday at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College.

WVU announces philanthropy award winners for 2012

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 18:54:03 GMT

The Robbinses are being honored for their generosity and leadership at WVU. The couple has provided the university with support in many ways over the years.

Student painkiller abuse may be linked to depression, suicide

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 18:48:52 GMT

WVU associate professor Keith Zullig and Amanda L. Divin, assistant professor in the Western Illinois University Department of Health Sciences, explored prescription drug abuse and depressive symptoms because of the prevalence of nonmedical prescription drug use among college students.

Veronte T. Stubbs, MPH Candidate presents her poster “Promoting Health Education to Decrease Risky B

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 17:19:54 GMT

Graduate Veronte T. Stubbs, MPH, presented her poster to research team members from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh on May 4, 2012.

Diabetes Linked to Lung Cancer in Postmenopausal Women

Thu, 31 May 2012 18:50:52 GMT

Juhua Luo, Ph.D., of West Virginia University in Morgantown, and colleagues utilized data from the Women's Health Initiative study involving a total of 145,765 postmenopausal women aged 50 to 79 years, of whom 8,154 had diabetes, who were followed for an average of 11 years. A total of 2,257 cases of lung cancer were diagnosed.

Study shows abuse of painkillers may be linked to depression, suicide in college students

Thu, 31 May 2012 18:46:34 GMT

A study by researchers in the emerging West Virginia University School of Public Health and Western Illinois University shows that college-aged females who abuse painkillers are more likely than males to feel depressed and suicidal.

Prescription Drug Abuse

Mon, 28 May 2012 18:42:26 GMT

Opioid addiction is a huge problem in West Virginia. The problem can even start right in your own medicine cabinet with prescription drugs. That's why experts answer questions about prescription drug abuse on this episode of Doctors on Call. Watch Prescription Drug Abuse, featuring Keith Zullig, Ph.D., and Laura Lander, LICSW (4/26/12)

New Department of Biostatistics Faculty

Fri, 25 May 2012 16:49:54 GMT

A brief introduction to the coming Department of Biostatistics faculty member Dr. Christa Ice.

New Department of Biostatistics Faculty

Fri, 25 May 2012 16:48:39 GMT

A brief introduction to the coming Department of Biostatistics faculty member Dustin Long.

OLLI gives seniors a lifetime of learning this summer

Fri, 25 May 2012 14:38:07 GMT

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at WVU Center on Aging (OLLI at WVU) is a membership organization open to anyone age 50 or older, regardless of educational background.

Sara Hanks has been awarded a grant to fund her project

Thu, 24 May 2012 18:08:12 GMT

Sara Hanks, HSTA Curriculum Coordinator and MPH Student Ambassador, has been awarded a grant to fund her project designed to increase the amount of physical activity in participants classified as “pre-diabetic.”

Pro-Mountain Activists Take Over West Virginia Coal Barge & Strip Mining Haul Road

Thu, 24 May 2012 13:35:49 GMT

According to a study co-authored by Dr. Michael Hendryx in 2011, a researcher at West Virginia University, “Self-reported cancer rates were significantly higher in the mining versus the non-mining area after control for respondent age, sex, smoking, occupational history, and family cancer history (odds ratio = 2.03, 95% confidence interval = 1.32–3.13).

Bambi A. Bevill, MPH was honored for academics

Tue, 22 May 2012 17:41:52 GMT

Bambi A. Bevill, MPH was honored for academics, leadership and service at the 2012 Educational Programs graduation ceremony.

Jodi Richardson recognized for academic excellence

Mon, 21 May 2012 17:06:48 GMT

Jodi M. Richardson, MPH, a May 2012 graduate, was recognized for academic excellence.

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS STUDENTS AND RESIDENTS POSTER and/or ORAL PRESENTATIONS

Mon, 21 May 2012 14:19:02 GMT

Undergraduate, graduate students and residents are invited to submit their research and program projects for scholarly oral or tabletop poster presentation during the annual WV Rural Health Conference. Selection of abstracts for presentation recognizes statewide student/resident activities and accomplishments. This opportunity is open to all undergraduate, graduate students and residents in health professions programs and undergraduate and graduate health-related programs. Completed projects and research and/or projects in-progress will be considered for acceptance.

MPH graduates examine mountaintop mining removal and the Affordable Care Act

Thu, 17 May 2012 18:01:46 GMT

MPH graduate (2012) Stephanie Lusk, RN and Roselinda Junkin, MPH (2012) examine mountaintop mining removal and the Affordable Care Act.

Sick From Fracking? Doctors, Patients Seek Answers

Tue, 15 May 2012 15:03:48 GMT

In the meantime, patients and doctors don't have a lot of options. In western Pennsylvania, a lot of them are referred to Charles Werntz at West Virginia University. Werntz, an occupational medicine specialist, is used to dealing with chemical exposures. Lately, he's seeing more people who live near the drilling.

Appalachian women put strip-mining on trial

Fri, 11 May 2012 20:27:43 GMT

Among other things, Gibbs and her fellow jurists heard from Beverly May, a family nurse practitioner from Kentucky. She gave a rundown of the studies by West Virginia University researcher Michael Hendryx and his colleagues that point to links between living near mountaintop removal and being more likely to get cancer or be born with birth defects.

Dr. Bill Reger-Nash retires from WVU

Fri, 11 May 2012 15:08:34 GMT

Dr. Bill Reger-Nash, professor in WVU’s emerging School of Public Health, was overjoyed by the dozens of colleagues, students and friends who attended his retirement reception Thursday at the WVU Health Sciences Center.

Thank You Veronte Stubbs

Thu, 10 May 2012 16:59:32 GMT

The WVU team would like to thank student Veronte Stubbs.

Study Shows Better Method for Diagnosing Kidney Disease

Mon, 07 May 2012 15:31:04 GMT

A new risk predictor for diagnosing kidney disease and measuring its progression could help physicians focus treatment efforts more efficiently, says study findings co-authored by University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers and published in the May 9, 2012 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Regional produce growers offered food handling and agricultural practices training

Sat, 05 May 2012 15:26:07 GMT

Training is provided by the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department, West Virginia Department of Agriculture, WVU Extension Service and the WVU Health Sciences Research Center.

Report looks at intimate partner violence in workplace homicides among U.S. women

Sat, 05 May 2012 15:24:26 GMT

Conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and West Virginia University's Injury Control Research Center, the research additionally stated this figure represents 22 percent of the 648 workplace homicides among women during the period of time.

Research team calls for better safety standards for working youth

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 13:23:12 GMT

Kimberly Rauscher, Sc.D., assistant professor in the West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine and member of the WVU Injury Control Research Center, was a co-investigator of the project, which brought together experts from a range of disciplines working in the U.S. and Canada to synthesize what is known about young worker health and safety and to develop a policy and research agenda.

To Find a Healthy Adult, Start with a Teen

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:47:08 GMT

Building on its experience in developing NOT, the West Virginia University PRC makes recommendations to clinicians on helping youths quit smoking.

What does Alpha have against scientists?

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:25:53 GMT

In the process, Alpha‘s lawyers convinced U.S. District Judge Robert C. Chambers to block testimony about the health studies — and as an added bonus for the company, the pressure of such legal fights appeared to convince WVU researcher Michael Hendryx — the lead scientist examining such issues — that he didn‘t want to testify as an expert witness after all.

WVU Department of Community Medicine to host student poster session April 24

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:58:17 GMT

The West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine will host its 10th annual Student Poster Presentation Session on Tuesday, April 24 in the Health Sciences Center.

WVU researchers identify several new genetic markers for repeat lung cancer

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:56:32 GMT

Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer among men and women throughout the world. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 220,000 people will be diagnosed with lung cancer in the United States, and 165,000 will die from the disease this year. Research at WVU’s Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center could dramatically reduce lung cancer death rates through molecular prediction.

Bullpush Mountain, public health and EPA attacks

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 17:39:56 GMT

The scientists – Dr. Margaret Palmer of the University of Maryland, Dr. Emily Bernhardt of Duke University, Dr. Michael Hendryx of West Virginia University, and Dr. Melissa Ahern of Washington State University – presented a range and depth of peer-reviewed scientific studies and data that show severe water degradation and community health problems in mountaintop removal mining areas.

Benefit aids Fistula Foundation

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 17:54:22 GMT

The benefit is being organized by the Community Medicine Student Association at WVU and will feature The High Street Jazz band. The WVU swing dance club will provide lessons from 8-9 p.m., followed by music and dancing.

Job injuries among youth prompt calls for better safety standards

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 17:08:24 GMT

Runyan and colleagues John Lewko, Ph.D., of Laurentian University in Ontario and Kimberly Rauscher, ScD, of West Virginia University, are using the report to advocate for stronger federal monitoring of youth worker safety, including assuring that children working on farms are better protected.

Study shows exercise plus diet best for improving cholesterol levels and saving lives in adults

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 17:17:11 GMT

A study by researchers in the West Virginia University School of Medicine, Tufts University and Stanford University shows that the combination of exercise and diet improves cholesterol better than either one alone in adults.

6 Major Health Problems You Could Create By Shorting Yourself Sleep

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 16:31:40 GMT

In a 2010 study published in the journal Sleep, researchers at the West Virginia University School of Medicine reviewed data from 30,397 people who had participated in the 2005 National Health Interview Study. They discovered that those sleeping fewer than 7 hours a night were at increased risk of heart disease. In particular, women under 60 who sleep 5 hours or fewer a night have twice the risk for developing heart disease.

Change the Future celebrates successes

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:04:17 GMT

Successes of the Change the Future West Virginia were highlighted Wednesday during a celebration at the Parkersburg Country Club.

"Leaving A Lasting Footprint"

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:10:03 GMT

It was a slow process to begin with...but Wednesday, the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department celebrated the overall success of a two-year program to promote healthy lifestyles.

HSC and Healthcare in the News for March 27, 2011

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 16:07:47 GMT

WVU’s decade of progress in cancer research has been recognized by the National Center for Research Resources of the National Institutes of Health with a $5.5 million grant to the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center for biomedical research.

Michael McCawley, a research associate professor in the WVU Department of Community Medicine, has developed a solar-powered, cellphone-enabled remote monitoring system to make sure Marcellus shale drilling sites in isolated locations are in compliance with environmental regulations, thus helping to make our most recent energy boom safer for the people of our region.

Giovanni Piedimonte, M.D., and a research team have discovered a class of natural regulatory molecules in human cells that can help fight a respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages of between 75,000 and 125,000 infants yearly.

HSTA one of W.Va.'s 'best-kept secrets'

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:24:45 GMT

After hearing a constant drumbeat about a shortage of scientists and health-care professionals in Appalachia, Ann Chester founded the Health Sciences and Technology Academy in 1994 to try to tackle a piece of the problem.

Rockefeller convenes hearing on prescription drugs

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:50:41 GMT

Medical experts testified Thursday before a congressional subcommittee looking into how the Medicare and Medicaid systems can help prevent and treat prescription drug abuse.

A globe-trotting visit

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:38:18 GMT

Basketball star wows kids at children’s hospital

School of Medicine earns several national rankings

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:36:10 GMT

The West Virginia University School of Medicine has been ranked in several different categories in U.S. News and World Report’s lists of high-achieving medical schools.

Public Health Grand Rounds - Update 2012: Black Lung in West Virginia

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 19:18:17 GMT

You are cordially invited to the live simulcast Public Health Grand Rounds presentation on Wednesday April 4, 2012

Senate committee explores prescription drug abuse

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:43:16 GMT

A congressional subcommittee is looking for solutions in the Medicare and Medicaid systems to stop prescription drug abuse.

Attacking Prescription Drug Problem

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:41:44 GMT

U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller believes the time has come for the federal government to consider ways to stem the rising tide of prescription drug problems in the United States. As rampant abuse of prescription pills continues to climb the senator wants to explore ways the tide can be turned with the tools of Medicare and Medicaid.

Jay chairs Senate hearing to examine prescription drug abuse

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 15:22:43 GMT

Jeffrey Coben, director of West Virginia University's Injury Control Research Center, testified, "The alarming increase in prescription drug abuse is clearly a crisis that demands our attention. "As a practicing emergency physician, I have seen the pain and torment of families, of children removed from their homes, of shootings, stabbings and suicide from drug abuse."

Yoga, deep breathing can help reduce stress for students at WVU

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 15:27:06 GMT

Kimberly Williams, the stress management specialist for the Dr. Dean Ornish Program at West Virginia University Hospital, as well as, a certified yoga teacher and professor in community medicine.

Study shows exercise and diet improve cholesterol in overweight and obese adults

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 19:23:13 GMT

George A. Kelley, D.A., and Kristi S. Kelley, M.Ed., researchers in the WVU Department of Community Medicine, Susan Roberts, Ph.D., Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, and William Haskell, Ph.D., Stanford Prevention Research Center, studied data on the combined effects of aerobic exercise and diet on cholesterol levels in adults who were overweight or obese.

Study shows exercise and diet improve cholesterol in overweight and obese adults (1)

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 13:50:15 GMT

George A. Kelley, D.A., and Kristi S. Kelley, M.Ed., researchers in the WVU Department of Community Medicine, Susan Roberts, Ph.D., Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, and William Haskell, Ph.D., Stanford Prevention Research Center, studied data on the combined effects of aerobic exercise and diet on cholesterol levels in adults who were overweight or obese.

Though the mountains may fall: The cost of mountain top removal

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 17:30:22 GMT

Even those who do not die in such tragic accidents tend to die sooner and have poorer health. Peer-reviewed studies conducted by researchers at West Virginia University and Washington State University indicate that cancer rates doubled near mountaintop removal mines, and birth defects increased 26 percent. “This significantly higher risk was found after control for age, sex, smoking, occupational exposure, and family cancer history,” says researcher Dr. Michael Hendryx.

Citizens celebrate clean indoor air

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 13:54:08 GMT

The Breathe Easy Alliance of Morgantown celebrated the first day of the county-wide Clean Indoor Air Regulation by visiting former smoking establishments all over Morgantown. The group chose venues to visit and celebrate the implementation of the ban including 123 Pleasant Street, McClafferty's Irish Pub, Jay's Getaway and The Morgantown Brewing Company.

Graduate Assistantships Available

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 19:16:48 GMT

Dr. Michael Beets in the Division of Health Aspects of Physical Activity in the Department of Exercise Science in the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina is recruiting up to 5 Ph.D. students beginning Fall 2012.

School of Medicine hopes to help treat AIDS-related cancers in Africa

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:48:20 GMT

Scot C. Remick, director of the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center at WVU, presented his lecture, "Building Capacity for AIDS Malignancy Clinical Trials in Africa," at the Pylons Learning Center of the Health Sciences Center. Remick has worked in East Africa since 1997, focusing in Uganda and Kenya.

Alliance Seeks Communications Fellow

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 14:41:21 GMT

Alliance for Biking & Walking, a coalition of more than 200 grassroots bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations across North America, is seeking a Communications Fellow to help with our work to create, strengthen and unite state and local bicycle and pedestrian advocacy organizations.

Former WVU wrestler to give alcohol safety lecture

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:11:10 GMT

Former West Virginia University wrestler Mike Wojcik will share his story about alcohol, ATVs and lessons learned at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 9 at Morgantown High School.

Walk 100 miles in 100 days

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 16:16:00 GMT

WALKING, AS WELL AS other forms of physical activity, can relieve stress, anxiety and depression, and elevate mood. It can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and several forms of cancer.

Ky. Voices: Denial of climate change dangerous political stand

Sun, 04 Mar 2012 16:13:40 GMT

That same year, Michael Hendryx of West Virginia University's Institute for Health Policy Research found that cancer-related deaths are significantly higher near streams that have been damaged by MTR.

Local physicians receive board certification

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:34:57 GMT

The American Board of Family Medicine has announced the successful completion of its Maintenance of Certification Examination by two local physicians.

New Folk Music Video On Impact of Mountain Top Removal

Sat, 25 Feb 2012 16:27:00 GMT

The Ohio-based folk band Magnolia Mountain has just released a new music video documenting the environmental and human impact of mountaintop removal coal mining.

Study Suggests Appalachia’s Health Disparities Aren’t Directly Linked to Coal Mining

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 16:01:39 GMT

The NMA was looking for research to counter several studies done by Michael Hendryx at WVU, who has found links between coal mining pollution and human health, including higher cancer rates and birth defects.

Fashion show emphasizes spring break safety

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 17:08:15 GMT

Students in West Virginia University’s sororities and fraternities will participate in a fashion show that demonstrates the negative fashion choices people can engage in when alcohol is in the mix as well as positive choices students can make.

WVU Develops Marcellus Shale Air Monitoring System

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:58:46 GMT

"We're just beginning, really, to find out what comes from a gas drilling site like this," said Dr. Michael McCawley, a professor in the Department of Community Medicine. "We don't really know what the levels are or if, in fact, the levels are high enough to cause any concern anywhere around."

RESEARCH: Couch potatoes cost millions

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 17:12:23 GMT

Couch potatoes cost West Virginians millions every year, West Virginia University School of Medicine professor George Kelley concluded in 2009.

Does the coal industry’s new report ‘debunk’ WVU studies on mountaintop removal and public health?

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:17:57 GMT

As noted last night in Coal Tattoo’s comments section, a Yale University researcher hired by the National Mining Association has published the first peer-reviewed paper that offers a response to the 20 papers that West Virginia University’s Michael Hendryx has produced over the last four years exploring the links between living near mountaintop removal mines and facing increased risks of health problems, including cancer and birth defects.

Mining-health link not so clear, new study says

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:15:16 GMT

Nearly two years ago, the association posted a message on social networking sites saying that a critique by Borak "debunks bogus studies" by WVU researcher Michael Hendryx. Last year, an industry law firm tried to dismiss one of Hendryx's studies, examining Appalachia's high rate of birth defects, by suggesting any such disparity was caused by inbreeding.

Professor develops air monitoring technology

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:13:25 GMT

Michael McCawley, interim chair of the Department of Environmental Health in the WVU School of Public Health, has developed remote monitoring modules that can wirelessly transmit air quality 24 hours a day. The transmitters are designed to monitor remote drilling locations, which would ensure drilling sites can comply with environmental regulations, even in isolated areas.

Health officials say W.Va. can reverse its chronic disease numbers

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:46:15 GMT

"We can beat this," said Dr. Alan Ducatman, interim dean of the West Virginia University School of Public Health. "If we decide from top to bottom that we're going to do this, we can do it." West Virginia occupies a top slot on almost every awful health ranking: diabetes, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and others.

WVU scientist designs novel system to monitor air around Marcellus wells

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:41:47 GMT

Dr. Michael McCawley, interim chair of the Department of Environmental Health in WVU's developing School of Public Health, is testing air monitoring equipment he designed that will give him easy access to air quality data at a site in Washington County,

Morgantown Chamber’s ideas about progress right on target

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 18:48:16 GMT

Alan M. Ducatman, MD, Chair, Community Medicine, Interim founding dean, School of Public Health Morgantown

Upcoming Webinar on Workers’ Compensation Among Health Care Workers

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:15:50 GMT

Dr. Jim Collins of NIOSH will present a webinar on February 15 from 12–1pm at the West Virginia University Grand Rounds on using intervention evaluation research to address the leading causes of workers’ compensation among health care workers. Access the webcast at http://mediasite.lib.wvu.edu/Mediasite1/SilverlightPlayer/Default.aspx?peid=4b58f657919b47e3a6c7448cf0d828b81d.

Coal conference ends with attacks on Obama

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:06:25 GMT

John Craynon of Virginia Tech University said the project, which includes researchers from nine regional educational institutions, is trying to see if there are "other interpretations" of studies like those by West Virginia University researcher Michael Hendryx.

Avoiding bias in mixed model inference for fixed effects

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:50:50 GMT

The results illustrate how accurate inference for fixed effects in a general linear mixed model depends on the covariance model selected for the data.

Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension Probably Linked to PFOA Contamination

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 18:40:28 GMT

The C8 Health Project is one of the largest and most comprehensive studies of its kind to result from a legal settlement. “The agreement . . . resulted in, first, a very large and rapidly collected data set by a court-appointed survey group, and then significant additions to understanding the population science related to perfluorocarbon exposure by independent researchers,” says Alan Ducatman, chairman of community medicine at West Virginia University. “These socially reasonable outcomes help . . . everyone by adding to the science and being accountable to population needs. That is a credit to the settling parties.”

Dept. of Community Medicine promotes alcohol safety

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:34:25 GMT

A T-shirt design contest within the department will work to increase student awareness about alcohol safety just in time for spring break, said Ruth Kershner, a professor in the Department of Community Medicine.

Ban on coal slurry injection introduced in House

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:31:28 GMT

The Legislature's interest in the potential dangers of coal slurry injection has been ongoing for several years. A West Virginia University study requested by lawmakers was inconclusive on the dangers of coal slurry, and a DEP report in 2009 indicated it had insufficient data to make a conclusion.

WVU’s new School of Public Health hosts open house for potential graduate students

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 13:17:48 GMT

The emerging West Virginia University School of Public Health will host a public health open house for students who may be interested in a graduate degree from 2 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26 in the John E. Jones Conference Center on the ground floor of the WVU Health Sciences Center.

Judge Chambers blocks health studies from mine permit case

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:01:08 GMT

A federal judge has sided with Alpha Natural Resources in the company's effort to keep testimony about West Virginia University studies linking mountaintop removal to birth defects and cancer among coalfield residents out of a legal challenge to one of Alpha's new mining permits.

WVU Department of Community Medicine to sponsor T-shirt design contest

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:27:59 GMT

Calling all artists! The West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine is sponsoring an alcohol safety T-shirt design contest, which is open to all WVU students on all campuses.

C8 may make vaccines less effective, study says

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:42:59 GMT

"If this ends up being confirmed, if these chemicals really do reduce the ability to fight off certain infections, then the concern is that the human immune response is affected," said Dr. Alan Ducatman, dean of West Virginia University's School of Public Health and co-author of several previous C8 papers.

Common Chemicals Could Make Kids' Vaccines Less Effective

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 20:37:18 GMT

These chemicals aren't as frightening as some found in the environment, says Dr. Alan Ducatman from West Virginia University, which has been part of a large study of a PFC known as C8. "But they are clearly problematic," he says, adding that the C8 study also found some evidence of an effect on the immune system.

WVU School of Pharmacy students to educate children on bullying

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:22:53 GMT

Second-year students in the West Virginia University School of Pharmacy are working with children in the after-school program at The Shack Neighborhood House to help educate them about bullying. The goal is to stop bullying before it starts.

First Choice to oversee Prescription Drug Abuse Quitline

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:54:29 GMT

Three years ago, the WVU School of Medicine started the state’s Prescription Drug Abuse Quitline with funds that were part of a settlement between the state and Purdue Pharma. The funding stopped in June 2011 and now First Choice Services is taking over the line’s operations.

Nonprofit takes over state's prescription abuse helpline

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:57:55 GMT

Because funding ended in June 2011, the goal has always been to find a partner to help sustain the efforts of the Quitline, said Dr. Keith Zullig, chairman of WVU's Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

West Virginia's Prescription Drug Abuse Helpline Receives New Management

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:56:18 GMT

First Choice Services has taken over operation of the West Virginia Prescription Drug Abuse Quitline from the West Virginia University School of Medicine.

New Management For Drug Abuse Helpline

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:55:32 GMT

Officials with First Choice Services announced the change on Thursday in Cabell County. Up to now, calls to the Prescription Drug Abuse Quitline have been handled through West Virginia University's School of Medicine.

West Virginia's Prescription Drug Abuse Helpline Receives New Management (1)

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:53:03 GMT

First Choice Services has taken over operation of the West Virginia Prescription Drug Abuse Quitline from the West Virginia University School of Medicine.

Low vitamin D linked to prehypertension

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:51:45 GMT

The study led by Charumathi Sabanayagama of West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown, W. Va. and colleagues shows that those whose vitamin D levels were in the lowest quartile were 48 percent more likely to suffer prehypertension, compared with those whose vitamin D levels were in the highest quartile.

WVU research suggests BPA may contribute to diabetes

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 20:47:29 GMT

Adults with higher levels in their urine of a chemical that’s commonly found in food and beverage packaging could be at increased risk of developing diabetes, according to new research from Anoop Shankar, an epidemiologist and associate professor in the WVU Department of Community Medicine.

WVU research suggests BPA may contribute to diabetes (1)

Sun, 25 Dec 2011 18:35:51 GMT

Adults with higher levels in their urine of a chemical that’s commonly found in food and beverage packaging could be at increased risk of developing diabetes, according to new research from Anoop Shankar, an epidemiologist and associate professor in the WVU Department of Community Medicine.

Creating first new school in 50 years

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 18:31:57 GMT

WVU officials continue working to create the first new school at the university in more than 50 years, and expect to have some tangible results in the spring. In January, WVU President James Clements announced the creation of a School of Public Health.

WVU Healthcare to seek state approval for $248M expansion

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:23:47 GMT

West Virginia University Healthcare officials plan to ask the state Health Care Authority for permission to undertake a $248 million expansion project, after WVU Hospitals board members approved the project earlier this month. As part of the expansion, a 10-story tower would be built next to Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, to increase inpatient care there.

BOH takes smoke-ban input

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:29:39 GMT

WVU Research Assistant Professor Michael McCawley spoke to the committee about the health hazards that smoking in public areas poses.

Happy Holidays from Chancellor Colenda & WVU Health Sciences!

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 16:05:20 GMT

Adam Baus, Public Health Ph.D. student, talking about the new school of Public Health in the chancellor's web linked holiday card.

Monongalia County One Step Closer to Smoking Ban

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:18:31 GMT

"We know from studies that profits actually go up in a lot of the non-smoking establishments in the bars and the restaurants where smoking bans were put in place because people feel like they're more welcome in those places when there's not smoking there," said WVU Hospital Occupational Health's Michael McCawley.

WVU Offers Webinar Series, Speakers Cordially Invited

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:32:24 GMT

West Virginia University School of Medicine announces the availability of webinars for its Public Health Grand Rounds seminar series.

W.Va. receives best ranking yet in health survey -- 41st

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:15:32 GMT

The state offers services such as the West Virginia Tobacco Quitline, over-the-phone counseling to help tobacco users quit, and Not On Tobacco, a program to help teenage smokers, but the state needs more money for tobacco-cessation programs, said Chantal Centofanti-Fields, vice president of mission at the American Lung Association.

WVU research: BPA may contribute to diabetes

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:50:42 GMT

Adults with higher levels in their urine of a chemical that’s commonly found in food and beverage packaging could be at increased risk of developing diabetes, according to new research from Anoop Shankar, M.D., Ph.D., an epidemiologist and associate professor in the West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine.

Oman Medical College renews WVU affiliation

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 14:24:08 GMT

Oman Medical College (OMC), which trains physicians, pharmacists and other health professionals on two campuses in the Sultanate of Oman, has extended its relationship with the West Virginia University Health Sciences Center.

Special Report: Health Impacts of Shale Gas Boom Still Unproven

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 17:19:08 GMT

Some numbers provided at the Pittsburgh conference by Carl Werntz, DO, MPH, an occupational health specialist at West Virginia University in Morgantown, and derived from industry publications, hint at the scale of these activities.

Eating canned food can get you toxic bisphenol A

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:42:05 GMT

A. Shankar and S. Teppala of West Virginia University School of Medicine in Morgantown, West Virginia reported in Sept 28, 2011 issue of Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism that urinary BPA levels were inversely associated with risk of diabetes mellitus.

WVU public health dean says scientists should ask the 'hard questions'

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 14:40:19 GMT

Alan Ducatman, interim founding dean of West Virginia's new School of Public Health, said for West Virginia to get a handle on its "deplorable" health problems, scientists can't shy away from controversial research areas.

Professor: Methane Spike Seen Near Drilling Activity

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 14:38:09 GMT

Charles Werntz, professor of community medicine at WVU, said he has seen various injuries suffered by those working on gas drilling sites, ranging from head trauma to amputations.

‘I will fight for our state’s coal industry’

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:43:37 GMT

Not so long ago, Gov. Tomblin was promising an open door policy — “frank and honest discussions” — once he took office. Perhaps the governor could start by taking a lengthy meeting with someone like Michael Hendryx, who could tell him about the West Virginia University coal mining health studies, of pulling together some climate-change experts to talk about coal’s contributions to the greenhouse gas buildup in the atmosphere.

Walmart program awards $100K grant to the WVU Foundation

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 19:46:20 GMT

One of the five WVU organizations receiving funds from the Walmart Associate Choice Program is: Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA) at WVU shepherds talented minority and underrepresented students through pre-college, college and graduate training in health science programs.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute - News Bulletin

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:35:59 GMT

Dr. Anoop Shankar has been appointed Director of the Center on Aging, our university “parent.” He has been on the faculty of the Department of Community Medicine for the past few years. We welcome him.

Effects of toxins in smokeless tobacco

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 18:33:53 GMT

The University of Minnesota is leading a study in collaboration with West Virginia University and the Oregon Research Institute to determine toxicant exposure across brands of smokeless tobacco. The collaborative study is among the first to assess the extent of human exposure to those toxicants by daily users of the products and examine factors that might influence the extent of the exposure.

WVU researchers develop online prognostic tool for lung cancer

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 18:32:48 GMT

Cancer Center researchers led by Lan Guo, PhD, have created an online prognostic tool, Personalized Rx, aimed at helping lung cancer doctors accurately estimate patient outcomes and determine the best course of treatment on a patient-by-patient basis.

Mining groups have a mountain to climb

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 18:29:52 GMT

In July, the peer-reviewed Journal of Community Health published a study which posited that among the 1.2m people living in central Appalachian communities affected by MTM, there were an additional 60,000 cases of cancer directly related to the practice. In the previous month, a study by researchers at West Virginia University found higher rates of birth defects in Appalachian areas with MTM compared with non-mining areas.

W.Va. Business Hall of Fame to induct four tonight

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:34:25 GMT

Stuart and Joyce Robbins Distinguished Professorship in Epidemiology was mentioned in the context of Stuart Robbins' induction into the West Virginia Business Hall of Fame

Commission to work with WVU

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 17:33:15 GMT

Wyoming County commissioners will meet with representatives of the new West Virginia University School of Public Health this week, according to David “Bugs” Stover, county circuit clerk.

New study links BPA exposure to increased risk of type 2 diabetes

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 17:46:02 GMT

For the present study, a team of researchers from West Virginia University analyzed urine samples collected between 2003 and 2008 as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The results, which were published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, showed that higher levels of BPA were associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

National Assessment of the Occupational Safety and Health Workforce

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:55:36 GMT

A new work safety workforce document was released today by the CDC and its National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). It lists Chris Martin among a short list of national task force advisors.

Help Teens Quit Smoking: Become A Lung Association-Certified Not On Tobacco Facilitator

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:50:42 GMT

The N-O-T program is an evidence-based, medically sound smoking cessation program for teenagers that was developed by researchers at West Virginia University. The program offers a supportive, structured environment that motivates lifelong behavior change.

BPA Again Tied to Diabetes Risk

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:43:11 GMT

"Since BPA measurements as well as diabetes diagnosis were conducted at the same time, we cannot say for sure that BPA exposure preceded diabetes development," lead researcher Dr. Anoop Shankar, of the West Virginia University School of Medicine, said in an email.

WVU: Unworthy request

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:06:51 GMT

Some of the most notable research coming out of WVU right now is by Dr. Michael Hendryx, an associate professor in the WVU Medical School's Department of Community Medicine. In the past four years, he has co-written 19 papers on illnesses afflicting families near coal mines. Coal industry leaders -- big backers of WVU – criticize his findings and try to discredit him.

WVU study finds strong link between arsenic and lung cancer incidence

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:26:52 GMT

Lan Guo and and graduate student Joe Putila were featured on the WVU Health Care news release site concerning their recent study of arsenic levels and lung cancer in the US.

A plea for health

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 18:53:02 GMT

We can learn from West Virginia. In particular, we can learn from Michael Hendryx of West Virginia University’s Community Medicine Department. Here are a few of the things Hendryx has learned from his studies in coal-mining communities. The residents, from the March 27, 2008, edition of ScienceDaily:

Board urges county, city to enact smoking ban

Sat, 08 Oct 2011 18:50:35 GMT

The West Virginia Prevention Research Center (PRC) brings academic researchers, community members and public health agencies together to formulate effective strategies to promote health and prevent disease. The

WVU tries to distance itself from its faculty's research

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 18:48:47 GMT

Over the past four years, Michael Hendryx, an associate professor in the WVU Medical School's Department of Community Medicine, has co-authored at least 19 papers that examine associations between high rates of illnesses and living near coal-mining operations.

Counting up the costs of coal

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:58:10 GMT

Regular readers know that WVU’s Dr. Michael Hendryx has done work on that issue (subscription required), reporting that:

More physicians concerned about the health risks of living near natural gas production operations

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:56:56 GMT

The Dean of West Virginia University's School of Public Health recently stated that the impact of hydraulic fracturing on the public's health needs to be studied.

Dwight Harshbarger has won the West Virginia Library "Award for Literary Merit"

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:52:27 GMT

Dwight Harshbarger, a Milton native, has won the West Virginia Library Association 2011 Award for Literary Merit, given annually to one author, for his historical fiction novel "Witness at Hawks Nest."

WVU sponsors vigil for victims of drunk driving

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 13:49:22 GMT

The WVU Department of Community Medicine and Parker Hall State Farm Insurance Agencies will sponsor a silent memorial from 11 p.m.-midnight today for all victims of alcohol-related automobile fatalities in West Virginia in 2009. Organizers said that is the last year for which figures were available.

W.Va. gets $1.9m federal health grant

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 16:05:14 GMT

This news item from the Huntington Herald Dispatch does not mention WVU. The Health Research Center ( http://www.hsc.wvu.edu/som/hrc/ ), its new CMED faculty and staff, are indeed part of the analytic aspect of this state effort concerning chronic disease.

State receives $1.9M health grant

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:50:42 GMT

Last week, West Virginia received a significant grant geared toward helping state residents eat better, smoke less, exercise more and take control of their blood pressure and cholesterol.

WVU Department Of Community Medicine, State Farm To Sponsor Memorial For Alcohol Fatalities

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 13:43:52 GMT

The West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine in conjunction with Parker Hall State Farm Insurance Agencies will sponsor a silent memorial for all the 2009 victims of alcohol-related automobile fatalities in West Virginia from 11 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, Oct. 6.

Latest WVU study finds more evidence of link between C8 levels and uric acid

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 13:57:33 GMT

While members of the C8 Science Panel were having their first-ever public meetings last week in the Parkersburg area, the fine folks at West Virginia University’s Department of Community Medicine were churning out another study of C8′s potential health effects.

The Importance of a School of Public Health to West Virginia

Sat, 01 Oct 2011 14:09:21 GMT

Two West Virginia leaders describe the important of and their aspirations for a new School of Public Health in WV.

Brumage dealt with disaster health issues

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:50:35 GMT

Public health issues following a disaster are all too familiar to U.S. Army Col. Michael Brumage. He is commander of the Public Health Command Region-Pacific and he dealt with several issues following the Japan earthquake this year. Brumage is a WVU grad. He returned to campus Thursday to talk about his experiences following the disaster. He gave his talk as part of the School of Medicine’s Public Health Grand Rounds.

Study: Active teens more likely to quit smoking

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:57:55 GMT

Researchers at the West Virginia University School of Medicine have conducted a study that suggests physical activity can help teens quit smoking. The study, which will be published in the October issue of the medical journal Pediatrics, aims to figure out how West Virginia teenagers can fight smoking habits. Dr. Kimberly Horn, the principle investigator of the study, said the main goal of the study was to help kids stop smoking through the incorporation of physical activity.

Marcellus Shale Drilling Health Meeting Held At OVMC

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 16:38:47 GMT

A panel made up of lawyers, emergency management officials and doctors discussed health perspectives. One widely shared concern about the industry was addressed by Dr. Alan Ducatman of West Virginia University. He discussed the mixture of chemicals and water used in the process of hydraulic fracturing.

Doctor Wants Study of Drilling’s Impact

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 16:36:25 GMT

Ducatman, West Virginia University School of Public Health dean, made the point during a program held Tuesday at Ohio Valley Medical Center in Wheeling. The program, "Marcellus Shale Drilling: A Health Perspective," was hosted by the Ohio County Medical Society, OVMC and the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce.

Be a healthy Mountaineer

Sun, 25 Sep 2011 13:40:53 GMT

BILL REGER-NASH, ED.D ., of the WVU Department of Community Medicine, offers the following tips for being a healthy Mountaineer fan...

Exercise Spurs Teenage Boys to Stop Smoking

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:51:09 GMT

For teenagers struggling to quit smoking, a new study has some advice. To break the habit, try breaking a sweat.

Exercise helps teen smokers quit: Study

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:49:46 GMT

West Virginia University researchers found that teens - particularly boys - were more likely to quit smoking if exercise was a part of their smoking-cessation program.

West Virginia Health Report: Chemicals and Arthritis

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:56:09 GMT

Common chemicals found in everything from microwave popcorn bags to nonstick cookware appear to be associated with a higher risk of arthritis, according to a recent WVU study.

Teen Exercise Affords Higher Smoking Cessation Rates: Study

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:53:33 GMT

Teenage smokers may have better luck quitting if physical activity is added to a traditional cessation program, and exercise is particularly effective with males, says researchers at the West Virginia University concluded in a study released Monday.

WVU study says exercise may help teen smokers quit

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:46:51 GMT

Teenage smokers may have better luck quitting if physical activity is added to a traditional cessation program, and exercise is particularly effective with boys, West Virginia University researchers conclude in a study released Monday.

Exercise Helps Young Smokers Quit

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:42:51 GMT

Adding exercise improved the results of a smoking cessation program among teen boys according to a CDC funded study published Monday in the journal Pediatrics. Teen girls in the program were more successful without the exercise, the study found.

Exercise Helps Young Smokers Quit (1)

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:36:41 GMT

Kim Horn and colleagues' research concerning exercise and smoking cessation in adolescents, published in the journal Pediatrics, was featured on the websites of multiple major news organizations today, including Time Magazine and CNN, including regionally important news such as West Virginia Public Radio that have not yet put up their web links. An additional nice thing about this article is the presence of a mentored student as a contributor.

Science: Becoming the Messenger

Sat, 17 Sep 2011 16:31:58 GMT

The National Science Foundation is sponsoring a workshop on research communications here at WVU Oct. 11-12.

Oral health key to overall health

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 20:04:04 GMT

“Oral health and general health are integral,” said Gina Sharps, assistant clinical professor in the Department of Dental Practice & Rural Health. Sharps gave a keynote speech during the WVU National Center of Excellence in Women’s Health Community Advisory Network’s quarterly meeting Wednesday.

Conquering Substance Abuse in West Virginia

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:59:50 GMT

Alan Ducatman was among those named to the Governor's Advisory Council on Substance Abuse, an issue that knows no boundaries. It touches people from all walks of life and all age groups. For many of our close-knit communities across the state, substance abuse is a personal issue affecting neighbors, friends and families. It is seen as a contributor to negative social issues. We are all understandably concerned.

Officials to Vent Their Smoking Ban Concerns

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 19:58:47 GMT

Meanwhile, Gamble said Dr. William Mercer, county health officer, announced a planned public meeting about Marcellus Shale drilling and public health. The meeting opens at 6 p.m. Sept. 27 with a cocktail hour and speakers starting at 7 p.m. at Ohio Valley Medical Center, 2000 Eoff St., Wheeling. Scheduled speakers include Mercer; Lou Vargo, Wheeling-Ohio County Emergency Management Agency director; and Dr. Alan Ducatman, chairman of the West Virginia University Department of Community Medicine.

Do teen driving restrictions save lives?

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 19:52:57 GMT

Another possibility is that even teens who get a license earlier will have less experience driving alone and under challenging conditions when they hit 18, said Dr. Motao Zhu, who studies traffic injuries at West Virginia University.

WVU Biosciences Research Summer 2011 - 2012

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 19:50:40 GMT

Bioscience Research at WVU, Summer 2011 features the following faculty: George and Kristi Kelley: exercise and function in arthritis | Lan Guo: Online prognostic tool for lung cancer, and, genetic marker for repeat lung cancer | Michael McCawley: nanoparticles | Sarah Knox: Link between early menopause and environmental chemicals | Michael Hendryx: Mountain mining and health | Anoop Shankar: sleep and heart disease

Latest WVU study ties C8 to chronic kidney disease

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 19:43:21 GMT

There’s another significant new study out from the folks at West Virginia University’s C8 Health Project, who are churning out tons of important research about the potential toxic effects of the DuPont chemical C8.

Stoking Fire

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 18:34:37 GMT

Stoking Fire: Mountaintop Coal Mining Leads to Birth Defects, Respiratory Illness and Other Health Problems

Touching coal before WVU game wrong

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 18:32:29 GMT

Touching a lump of dead fossils -- coal -- that has come from a mine where many people recently died equals honoring an industry that is -- by the account of many experts (including WVU scientists) -- causing the death and sickness of many of our citizens on a daily basis. Thus, I would challenge the Marshall Thundering Herd to enter the field a bit differently. I suggest that they post a large windmill at their entrance point to the field. This is a sign of a healthy future for our state.