NURS 8310 WEEK 4 EPIDEMIOLOGIC STUDY DESIGNS Population health problem
The United States is currently fighting a non-communicable epidemic known as obesity. Compared to other countries, the United States data reports obesity is almost doubled compared to other countries in the world (CDC, 2020). Questions are posed as to why obesity is such a concerning factor and how we can prevent the effects of obesity. Obesity is a critical factor in diagnosing Type 2 Diabetes (CDC, 2020). Prevention requires a multilevel approach in order to maintain healthy outcomes. A healthy diet and exercise are critical factors in addressing obesity (Chen et al., 2020). Thus addressing “What role does diet and exercise play in preventing Texas’ individuals at risk and those who have been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes from further complications?
Epidemiologic study design
Utilizing an experimental research design allows researchers to evaluate the effects of diet and exercise and their long-term effects on preventing a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes or increasing the chance of remission of a current diagnosis. An experimental design should provide insight into the role of a healthy diet and exercise in maintaining health (Chen et al., 2020). The assumptions of adults being physically active three times a week and the belief that diet has the ability to counteract the role genes play in being diagnosed with diabetes can be addressed with an experimental study (CDC, 2020) (Chen et al., 2020).
Strengths and the limitations of the potential data sources
Data obtained from EHRs can provide in-depth detail regarding those diagnosed with diabetes and family history. The data can further point out those at risk for type 2 diabetes due to abnormal or borderline lab findings. Another option for collecting data is through interviews and observation to confirm family history, diet, and exercise practices (Wang et al., 2017).
A limitation would be participant bias in reporting diet and exercise practices. Another limitation would be inconsistent data from EHRs. Lastly, due to the length of the study and requirements, there is an increased risk for participant dropout. However, measures can be taken to decrease some of the bias, such as standard verbiage for interviews and definitions (Wang et al., 2017). Alternatively, some proof of exercise and healthy eating could be incorporated, such as a food diary (Chen et al., 2020). Doing so could additionally improve accountability. Researchers can then utilize the evidence to provide a relationship between diet and exercise to prevent and worsen type 2 diabetes.
Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Diabetes Fast Facts.
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/quick-facts.html
Chen, S. M., Lin, W. C., Lin, H. S., & Wu, J. (2020). Effects of a youth diabete
