A Bridge to Wellness: Gains from a health fair among fishermen in the Port of New Bedford, USA. (13th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brisbois, M; Silva, H; Santos, A; Canasta, H; Feno, A; Cabral, L; Soares, R
• Is Part Of: European journal of public health. Volume 29(2019)Supplement 4
• Publication Date: 2019-11-13
• Subjects: Epidemiology -- Europe -- Periodicals; Public health -- Europe -- Periodicals; 362.109405
• DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckz186.484
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1101-1262

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Globally, it has been noted that fishermen have a higher mortality from cardiovascular disease, cancer, and injury from work-related accidents when compared to the general population. A potential increase in unemployment in fishermen in New Bedford could result in a lower income level which relates to an increase in risk behaviors, less health screenings, and negative health behaviors. While there is a lack of health-related data among fishermen across the globe, there is little information regarding the health among fishermen, who are predominantly immigrants, in the US. Objectives: The objectives include designing a health promotion fair to prepare nursing students with the skills to educate fishermen associated with nutrition, diabetes mellitus, cancer and hypertension as identified by key informants in the community. Results: Students expressed gains in achieving nursing competencies related to collaboration, communication, and teaching/learning by designing a fair with stations related to the four health topics with posters and activities. Educational materials were available in both Portuguese and English to support this aggregate who expressed learning new knowledge. Networking among local fishing agencies, nursing students and the fishermen supported this project from start to finish. Conclusions: Despite limited access to this vulnerable group, learning nursing competencies and increased fishermen's knowledge were realized. Connecting students with vulnerable populations is an effective way to promote learning for both groups. Key messages: Multiple gains are noted when nursing students are paired with vulnerable community aggregates. Learning to work in the community with local agencies and groups is an effective teaching/learning pedagogy.