Caribbean Epidemiological Transition Study Introduction
This project is designed to provide students with the opportunity to participate in basic field experiences in epidemiological research and to collect data which examine the role of lifestyle factors in the development of obesity and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in the study populations.
Background
Over the past 20 years numerous studies in the Pacific Islands have been able to document changes associated with the epidemiological transition where increased life expectancy and decreased mortality from infectious diseases are followed by a rise in the frequency of chronic diseases such as diabetes. These changes usually occur in societies where economic development has resulted in the adoption of a "western lifestyle" in place of more traditional patterns of living. Among developing island populations of the Caribbean, there has been little research in this important area. In this field experience, students will investigate the epidemiological transition on various islands in the Eastern Caribbean .
Data Collected
Students will participate in the collection of information by interview and by performing clinical measurements. The following will be collected by questionnaire:
 Tobacco Use
Socio-Economic Status
Alcohol Consumption
Physical Activity
Diet
The student can expect to participate in the following clinical activities:
Obtain informed consent
Measure blood pressure
Conduct Anthropometries
Responsibilities
Students will be responsible for the operation of a research clinic as part of this project. This will involve recruitment of participants, scheduling of clinic visits, maintenance of patient files, and reporting of results.
Each week every student will be required to complete a summary report which documents his/her weekly activities. The progress of the overall project and of each student will be discussed at weekly meetings with faculty.
A jointly prepared abstract of the research is required at the end of the training experience.
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