Areas of Interest
Food and Nutrition: People in this world have forgotten the value and power of food because slowly, they have started to rely on medication. Former academic and professional career has given an exposure to successfully address the health issues related to food and nutrition.
Diabetes – Global Epidemic: Diabetes is not just “sugar” or “carbs.” It is a metabolic disease and can be managed with lifestyle and diet changes. The patient gets discouraged when they are diagnosed with diabetes and thinks their life will be restricted. My goal is to change that perception and educate them about how insulin production works in the pancreases and how our body utilizes glucose. Or it could be because of obesity or a history of heart diseases and high cholesterol. Practicum at Sentara Diabetes Prevention Program in Virginia Beach has given me that platform to learn more about what patient perceive diabetes as a disease and what community need in terms of training and resources to manage their blood glucose levels.
Electronic Nicotine Devices: In 2019, the United States experienced a pulmonary disease outbreak associated with vaping devices among young adults. Dr. Akpinar assigned me a task to draft a news article for her on the vaping epidemic. While researching, I found interesting facts on how these E-cigarettes work as a substitute for traditional cigarette smoking, alluring flavors used in the devices, and how the tobacco market targets the younger generation. Most interestingly, I found out that artificial food flavors containing a chemical constituent called Diacetyl were the causative agent of pulmonary disease among the popcorn factory workers. Diacetyl was widely used as a butter flavor in the popcorn industry and linked with pulmonary diseases. However, limited studies have been done in the tobacco industry relating Diacetyl and lung diseases. Findings were fascinating, and thus it is my area of interest. I hope to work on the project associated with vaping in the future.
Plan to Contribute in Public Health Field
Currently, I am preparing myself to earn a higher degree. I hope to continue working on the projects that I have been part of to gain more in-depth knowledge. Research and internships will allow me to enhance my area topic skills and bring some light to the cause.
My plan is to work for the health department, non-profit organizations as an educator, or for the food governing agencies where my expertise will be utilized in the public’s profit. MPH competencies offered by the program will help me achieve my goals.