Lauren Haws - Public Health Trends in minorities in Denver Colorado.

 Lauren Haws - Public Health Trends in minorities in Denver Colorado.

I contacted a Public Health Nurse who works in a hospital in downtown Colorado, in a “sketch” part of town. Her name was Michelle Matheson she works with many lower economical class patients and minorities. This has given her a neat perspective on public health trends in these populations. I want to go to nursing school when I graduate so it was also an opportunity for me to speak to her about how she likes her job and how helpful she finds her degree in Public Health in the Nursing field. The trends she recognized from the hospital and area she works in, in downtown Denver are:

Obesity: Although Colorado has been historically known as a fit state it is losing its edge. Denver has increasing dates of obesity and with that comes the diseases and risks associated with obesity. Since, obesity is a chronic disease she stressed how important prevention and recognition are. It is easier to prevent and be away of obesity than to “cure” it and take the weight off after it has been accumulating for years. Many of the diseases associated with obesity such as diabetes and hypertension are often hard for people to manage with several medications. She mentioned the risks that occur when obese women are having babies, something also increasing in Colorado.

Influence environment has on health: Colorado doesn’t always have the best air quality and Michelle explained they have seen a rise in the number of children with asthma and respiratory diseases. Although the air quality is not as bad as it is in Utah at times, it still has an effect on young children and those already suffering. As a public health nurse she relates well to other factors that contribute and sometimes explain why we are seeing an increase in disease, and not just how to treat what comes in. This is something the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment puts a lot of focus on as well.

Health disparities: Particular predominant in the area of Denver she works, Michelle said health disparities are something they deal with everyday. Many of the people she treats and who come in are from lower social economical status and do not have insurance. She says this is a big problem facing all aspects of public health. Many of the diseases they experience and the severities are directly related to their living conditions and the availability of doctors and access to medical care. If health disparities can be solved many diseases can maybe be prevented.

Drug Abuse: Michelle also explained addiction and drug use are also something very prominent in Denver. This is something that also directly affects children and others in the home that are near this addictive behavior. It sets bad examples and causes many hospitalizations from over and abused use. With the homeless populations in downtown Denver they also end up treating many of those who come in high and drunk and have injuries. Drug abuse and addiction correlates to health disparities.

Immunizations: Something Michelle talked about was immunizations and how people are becoming less immunized. There are many people and parents she comes into contact with that are against immunizations for liberal reasons. She explained how bad this is in a hospital setting and the effect it has on communicable diseases. With flu season finishing up and the risk for pandemics always on the lookout she explained the importance vaccines can have on individuals. Poor access to doctors and medical services also contributes to lack of immunization.