Our Research and Evaluation division is regarded as a leader in conducting independent, investigator-initiated public health research. Our research not only improves our programs, but advances knowledge on health and health care throughout the state and the nation. Public Health Solutions’ (PHS) research is targeted towards the main areas in which we administer key services: HIV/AIDS and STI prevention, reproductive and sexual health, and obesity.
PHS’ research team is nationally-recognized leaders in developing technology-based interventions and social marketing campaigns using video, social media, and interactive internet-based applications to promote sexual health and prevent obesity.
Featured Research
Predictors of Obesity in a Cohort of Children Enrolled in WIC as Infants and Retained to 3 Years of Age
This longitudinal study looked at the relationship between children who took part in the WIC program and rates of obesity. It found that children of mothers who received the full breastfeeding food package when their infant was enrolled in WIC were significantly less likely to be obese.
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Exploring Pharmacy and Home-based Sexually Transmissible Infection Testing
This study assessed both the feasibility and social acceptance of home-based STI screening as an alternative to going to testing sites. The study found that while few use home-based testing among those surveyed, it is feasible and generally accepted—especially among young women. Additionally, it was found that collaborating with and training pharmacy and medical staff are key elements to increase use of home-based STI screening.
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Developing a video-based eHealth intervention for HIV-positive gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
The goal of this study is to describe how an online intervention will be conducted in order to better understand video-based health interventions as an effective public health strategy. The study focuses on Sex Positive!, a one-year online intervention that includes a series of 10 short videos designed to elicit critical thinking around issues of HIV transmission and disclosure.
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