Diabetes among American Indian/Alaska Native Utah Women

More than 30 million Americans are currently living with diabetes—approximately 1 in every 10 people.1 Of these cases, over 90% are classified as type 2 diabetes. 2 Diabetes is more prevalent within certain populations and age groups, with risk generally increasing with age. While about 10% of the overall adult population has diabetes, this figure …

Trends in Stillbirth Rates in Utah

Background Stillbirth, sometimes called fetal mortality, is a public health issue that spans many of the seven domains of health. However, stillbirth remains relatively undiscussed and unexplored. Even the definition is not widely agreed upon across states and nations.1 In Utah, stillbirth is defined as a baby of at least 20 weeks gestational age being …

Does Maternal Age Modify the Association Between Gestational Diabetes and Primary C-section Delivery? A Cross-Sectional Study of Utah PRAMS Data

Abstract Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is prevalent in expecting mothers and is associated with various adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. Previous studies suggest a relationship between GDM and cesarean section (CS). However, the results of these studies in the context of primary CS and mothers’ age are limited and inconsistent, when other factors are …

Prenatal Depression and Anxiety and Risk of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: Findings from the Utah Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring Survey (2016–2020)

Abstract Objectives: Depression during pregnancy has recently been found to affect the risk of hypertensive pregnancy disorders. However, few studies have looked at the effect of having depression or anxiety prior to pregnancy and its effects on hypertensive pregnancy disorders (HDP). This study aims to analyze a population-based sample of at-risk pregnant women in Utah …

The association between preconception polycystic ovary syndrome and gestational diabetes mellitus among women with and without pre-pregnancy hypertension: a cross-sectional study from Utah’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System Survey (2016-2021)

Abstract Objectives: The objective of this study is to test the association between preconception polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) using Utah’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (2016-2021). In addition, pre-pregnancy hypertension will be tested as a potential effect moderator. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilizes data from Phase 8 of the Utah …

Barriers to Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Women of Color in Utah

Abstract Background: Physical inactivity and unhealthy eating are associated with morbidity and mortality, elevating health disparities in underserved communities. This study aims to identify common barriers to fruit/vegetable consumption and physical activity and explore factors associated with these barriers in women of color living in urban Utah. Methods: The study involves secondary analysis of baseline …

7 Domains of Women’s Health: Ovarian Cancer Landscape Post Roe v Wade

With the overturning of Roe v Wade by the Supreme Court on June 24, 2022, patients, advocates, clinicians, and researchers have braced themselves for the long-term negative impact on women’s health. The public and political discussion typically turns to abortion access and reproductive rights, with seldom consideration and conversation regarding how this decision may negatively …

Understanding Menopause and Sexual Function from the Biological and Hormonal Perspective

Background Sexual health, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a “state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing related to sexuality; not merely the absence of dysfunction or infirmity.”1 Sexuality, an expression of our sexual health, is an inherently human trait and a basic human right that applies to all individuals. Unfortunately, …

Differences in Pain Management Practices in College Athletes by Sex at a Single Academic Institution

Abstract Objectives: The purpose was to assess attitudes, perceptions and self-reported practices of pain management following injuries incurred as an athlete. Methods: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey. The Likert scale questionnaire given to student athletes asked questions regarding student’s mental health, resilience, and use of opioids to manage pain. Descriptive statistics were calculated …

Obesity in Pregnancy and its Effects: Utah 1993-2020

Background Obesity is a growing health problem that can adversely affect many aspects of health, including pregnancy. It is a common, serious, and costly disease that is more prevalent in disadvantaged and marginalized groups.1 Along with the many associated public health implications of obesity, some are specifically important in pregnancy and pediatric health, posing a …