Biomedical subjects

Betty M Kennedy

Publications and source records attributed to Betty M Kennedy.

3 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2005

Successfully recruiting a multicultural population: the DASH-Sodium experience.

Recruiting practices employed by the four clinical centers participating in the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH)-Sodium trial were examined to assess the most successful method of obtaining participants and to describe pertinent learning experiences gained as a result of the trial. The primary recruitment strategies employed by each center were mass mailing brochures (direct, coupon packs, or other) and mass media (advertisements in newspapers, radio, and television spots). Of 412 randomized participants, 265 (64%) were from mass distribution of brochures, 62 (15%) mass media, and 85 (21%) were prior study participants, referred by word-of-mouth, or reported coming from screening events and presentations. Although the most successful method of recruitment was mass mailing brochures, three times as many brochures were distributed to obtain similar success as in the initial DASH trial.

Adult↗

PubMed2005

A pilot church-based weight loss program for African-American adults using church members as health educators: a comparison of individual and group intervention.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to examine a church-based intervention employing a 6-month pilot weight loss program as a strategy to improve health of African-American adults. DESIGN: A randomized trial design was used without a control group. Eligible church members were randomized into two groups: an intervention delivered in the group setting and an intervention delivered in the individual setting. SETTING: The study was conducted at an African-American church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. PARTICIPANTS: Forty church members were enrolled in the study. Two trained church members without specialization in obesity treatment conducted the study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The primary outcome measure was weight loss. RESULTS: The program retention rate was 90%. After six months, a modest but significant mean weight loss was seen in all participants of 3.3 kg. The mean weight losses in the individual and group interventions were 3.4 kg and 3.1 kg, respectively. The mean body fat loss was 2.1 kg and 1.9 kg, respectively. The difference in weight loss and fat loss between the individual and group interventions was not statistically significant. An improvement in the quality of life and an increase in physical activity were reported by the program participants. CONCLUSIONS: A church setting may provide an effective delivery mechanism for a health and nutrition program. Church members may be trained to conduct a weight control program. Both interventions (individual and group) were effective in inducing weight loss.

Adult↗

PubMed2002

Clinical research trials: a comparison of African Americans who have and have not participated.

The purpose of this is study was to gain an understanding of the knowledge and perceptions African Americans have that influence decisions to participate or not participate in clinical research trials. A survey instrument designed to measure the key variables; knowledge and perceptions of clinical research processes, and selected demographic characteristics were utilized in this study. The major finding suggests that African Americans who have been participants in a clinical trial are more likely to participate in future clinical trials if details are provided in advance concerning the requirements and criteria for their participation.

Adult↗