Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
The enhancement of health and the prevention of diseases can be achieved through interventions that target the population as a whole, focusing on addressing social determinants and health disparities. This approach encompasses actions aimed at promoting health and preventing diseases. Disease prevention involves implementing targeted interventions at both the population and individual levels, focusing on primary and secondary prevention strategies such as early detection (Shahzad et al., 2019). The ultimate goal is to reduce diseases’ impact and associated risk factors on the population. This paper focuses on Modesto City’s youth population as the chosen local population. This paper aims to offer a thorough depiction of a Modesto city community and its susceptible subgroup, analyzing various factors such as demographics, health, environment, and social determinants. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
Chosen Population
Modesto, located in California, is an urban area with a population of approximately 218,069 as of 2022 (City-data.com, n.d.). The population comprises 48.7% males and 51.3% females, showcasing a balanced gender distribution. The median age in Modesto is 36.0 years, slightly lower than the median age of 37.9 years in California. This indicates that the city has a relatively youthful population. Notable zip codes in Modesto include 95350, 95355, and 95368, which are essential for identifying specific areas within the city. The estimated median household income in Modesto for 2022 is $73,275, a significant increase from the $40,394 recorded in 2000. This rise in income suggests economic growth and improved financial stability for residents. In terms of per capita income, Modesto is expected to have an estimated value of $33,040 in 2022, compared to $17,797 in 2000 (City-data.com, n.d.). This indicates an increase in individual income levels over the years. The statistics from the Modesto city census indicate that a substantial majority, 56.3%, of the population was below the age of 35 in 2022, signifying a significant youthful presence within the city (U.S. Census Bureau, n.d.). Consequently, a significant portion of the city’s population can be considered youthful, as it accounts for approximately half of the total.
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The estimated median house or condo value in Modesto for 2022 is $437,400, a substantial rise from the $123,800 recorded in 2000. This surge in property value signifies a thriving real estate market in the city. Modesto’s crime rate, measured by the City-Data.com crime index, is 323 in 2022. This rate is 1.3 times higher than the national average, indicating that the city faces some challenges in terms of crime. However, it is worth noting that the number of homicides decreased to 10 compared to the previous year. The subpopulation in Modesto displays significant racial and ethnic diversity compared to the overall population, with Hispanic/Latino individuals being overrepresented (CDC, 2024). Poverty rates and housing conditions disproportionately impact the subpopulation, influencing health outcomes. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
Description of Location and Subpopulation
Modesto has a considerable population of adolescents who are living in circumstances that may indicate potential long-term health issues. Studies have shown that experiencing poverty during early life can have a lasting impact on health, even into adulthood. In 2022, approximately 16.2% of Modesto residents had incomes below the poverty line (City-data.com, n.d.). The occupational landscape in Modesto is diverse, with an average hourly wage of $28.58 as of May 2022. Notably, healthcare practitioners, technical occupations, and community and social service roles in Modesto have higher wages compared to national averages. Access to healthcare is a significant health need identified in Modesto. Kaiser Permanente Modesto Medical Center has prioritized addressing this need, along with mental and behavioral health, housing, income, employment, and opportunities for healthy living. The Stanislaus County Health Services Agency also offers various health services, including outpatient clinics that are federally qualified health center-look-alikes. Modesto Area Express (MAX) provides local fixed-route services, and express commuter service to nearby train stations, and is accessible for individuals using wheelchairs and bicycles. Additionally, Stanislaus Regional Transit (StaRT Bus) offers transportation services between cities throughout Stanislaus County. Modesto residents have access to a network of supportive food pantries that offer assistance. These pantries provide food distribution, nutrition counseling, and referrals to other resources. In addition, free food resources such as soup kitchens and food banks are available. The diet of Modesto residents is generally reported to be healthy by 48% of the population. However, there is a concern for oral health, as the average resident last visited a dentist two years ago. Furthermore, 17% of individuals aged 30 and older in Modesto feel embarrassed because of their teeth or dentures, highlighting the need for improved oral health services.
Comparison
The city is racially and ethnically diverse, with 57.5% White, 4.6% Black or African American, 7.7% Asian, 42.6% Hispanic or Latino, and 17.8% Two or More Races. 18.3% of Modesto residents were born outside of the country. Housing in Modesto is primarily owner-occupied at a rate of 57.7%, with a median value of $381,800. Median gross rent is $1,497. Regarding education, 83.6% of individuals aged 25 and above are high school graduates or higher, and 19.7% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Health-wise, 9.8% of individuals under the age of 65 have a disability, and 6.3% lack health insurance (United States Census Bureau, n.d.). Despite its many positive attributes, Modesto faces some environmental concerns for certain subpopulations. Due to car emissions and industrial agriculture, air quality is a major issue, leading to frequent high ozone days and respiratory health problems such as asthma. There are also concerns surrounding groundwater contamination and deteriorated housing conditions in certain neighborhoods. Disadvantaged communities in Modesto experience higher poverty rates, and pesticide exposure from agricultural activities is another health concern. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
The adolescent population in Modesto is a reflection of the city’s diversity, with a significant representation from various racial groups. The city’s population consists of 57.5% White, 4.6% Black or African American, 7.7% Asian, and 42.6% Hispanic or Latino individuals. This diversity is crucial because different racial groups may have distinct health concerns. In Modesto, a considerable percentage of individuals aged 25 years and older have achieved a high school diploma or higher education level. Specifically, 83.6% of the population have a high school diploma or higher, while 19.7% have a bachelor’s degree or higher (City-data.com, n.d.). Education plays a vital role in determining health outcomes, and lower educational attainment among the adolescent population may be associated with poorer health outcomes. This could include higher rates of smoking and lower rates of physical activity. The health concerns for the adolescent population in Modesto are notable. Among them, 8.2% have been diagnosed with diabetes, 24.6% have high blood pressure, and 30.2% are obese. These health concerns align with the demographic data, as lower income and educational levels are often linked to higher rates of these conditions. It is crucial to address these health concerns and provide appropriate support and resources to improve the overall well-being of the adolescent population in Modesto.
Significant Social Determinants of Health in Modesto
Various factors play a role in determining our lifespan and overall well-being. Health factors are key components that can be enhanced to promote longevity and better health (Hacker et al., 2022). These factors serve as predictors of the future well-being of our communities. Modesto City, CA, is situated in Stanislaus County, which is performing below the state average in terms of Health Factors and also below the national average (County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, 2024). Crime and violence have the potential to impact individuals directly or indirectly, whether through personal experiences or exposure to incidents within their community. While these issues can affect anyone, certain groups are more vulnerable to their effects. High crime rates are a significant Social Determinant of Health, contributing to disease and premature death within communities. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
Violent crimes, such as assaults, robberies, and homicides, play a role in increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Exposure to violence can have detrimental effects on mental health, physical well-being, and overall quality of life for individuals. Various community resources, including local newspapers, online platforms, hospital websites, and county health departments, address crime-related incidents and safety concerns. Discussions often revolve around law enforcement practices, community safety, and crime prevention strategies, highlighting the need to balance public safety with civil liberties. Concerns related to health in communities often revolve around personal safety, particularly in disadvantaged neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Fear of violence can impact mental health, stress levels, and overall well-being, leading to a decrease in outdoor activities and community engagement.
Emergency room visits and hospital admissions are often the result of violent crimes, such as assaults, gunshot wounds, and stabbings. Substance abuse-related incidents, such as drug overdoses and alcohol-related injuries, also contribute to hospital admissions, further impacting community health. The fear of crime, limited mobility, and neighborhood insecurity can significantly reduce the quality of life for residents, particularly in disadvantaged communities that bear a disproportionate burden of these issues. Modesto’s crime statistics for 2022 reveal a Total Crime Index of 323, which is above the national average in the United States (City-data.com, n.d.). The Violent Crime Rate stands at 7.66 incidents per 1,000 residents, while the Property Crime Rate is reported at 25.32 incidents per 1,000 residents. The likelihood of becoming a victim of Violent Crime in Modesto is 1 in 131, and the chances of falling victim to Property Crime are 1 in 39, based on the data provided by the City-data website. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
Available Resources to Address Crime and Violence
Community policing programs involve collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities, aiming to prevent crime, build trust, and address safety concerns. Working closely with residents, officers can identify and address specific safety issues affecting different subpopulations, thus focusing on crime prevention before it occurs. This approach enhances safety by increasing police presence and community involvement, resulting in safer neighborhoods, reduced fear, and improved overall well-being. The Modesto Police Department actively collaborates with community organizations, hosts neighborhood watch programs, and conducts outreach events to promote community safety.
Youth and Family Support Centers play a crucial role in addressing crime as a social determinant of health (SDOH). These centers provide resources, counseling, and support for at-risk youth and families, addressing various needs such as education, mental health, and crime prevention. By offering after-school programs, mentorship, and recreational activities, these centers keep youth engaged and away from risky behaviors, contributing to youth engagement. Additionally, family services these centers provide include parenting classes, counseling, and referrals to community resources, empowering families and promoting safer neighborhoods. Several youth centers in Modesto, such as the Boys & Girls Clubs, allow young people to access educational support, mentorship, and positive activities, further supporting the local implementation of these initiatives. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
Required Resources
The necessity for community-based mental health services arises from the need to provide mental health support to subpopulations, particularly those who have been exposed to violence and trauma. These individuals require accessible mental health services that can address their specific needs and provide the necessary support. Community-based mental health services also play a crucial role in offering trauma-informed care to individuals residing in high-crime areas. Many people in these areas experience trauma, and by providing services that are sensitive to their experiences, these services can help them heal and recover.
Another important reason for the implementation of community-based mental health services is the prevention of escalation into criminal behavior or substance abuse. To implement these services at a local level, it is essential to establish community mental health clinics, crisis intervention teams, and mobile units. These facilities can provide counseling, therapy, and crisis management to individuals in need, ensuring that they have access to the support they require. Collaboration with local law enforcement is also crucial in diverting individuals with mental health crises away from the criminal justice system. By working together, mental health services and law enforcement can ensure that individuals receive appropriate care and support instead of being subjected to the criminal justice system.
The need for youth empowerment and education programs is evident in their ability to prevent juvenile delinquency. By investing in these programs, the likelihood of young individuals getting involved in criminal activities can be significantly reduced. Engaging youth in education, skill-building, and recreational activities provides positive alternatives to risky behaviors. Breaking the cycle of crime starts with empowering young people, and youth empowerment and education programs play a vital role in achieving this. By providing young individuals with the necessary resources, support, and opportunities, these programs can help them break free from the cycle of crime and create a better future for themselves. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
Population-Based Intervention
Addressing crime and enhancing community well-being involves the crucial role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in crime prevention by acting as a vital link between law enforcement, healthcare providers, and the community. According to a study by Barbero et al. (2022), through active engagement with residents, CHWs can effectively identify safety concerns, establish trust, and advocate for preventive measures, ultimately contributing to the creation of safer neighborhoods and a decrease in fear of crime. A specific example of the impactful role of CHWs is seen in youth empowerment initiatives, where CHWs focus on providing mentorship, education, and positive alternatives to at-risk youth, thereby reducing the likelihood of juvenile delinquency and criminal activities. Program implementation, such as Modesto’s CHW program targeting at-risk youth, involves collaboration with schools, community centers, and local organizations to engage youth in after-school programs, vocational training, and recreational activities, leading to a decrease in crime rates through the provision of positive alternatives and empowerment of the youth.
Conclusion
Modesto city population is racially diverse, with population-based health outcomes comparable with California and nationwide data. However, the discrepancies in crime rates and violence-related deaths are glaring. To address this social determinant of health, this paper has proposed the institution of community health workers to bridge the gap in resources to link the youthful population and sensitize them about crime and strategies to protect the community. Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
References
Barbero, C., Hafeedh Bin Abdullah, A., Wiggins, N., Garrettson, M., Jones, D., S Guinn, A., Girod, C., Bradford, J., & Wennerstrom, A. (2022). Community health worker activities in Public Health programs to prevent violence: Coding roles and scope. American Journal of Public Health, 112(8), 1191–1201. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306865
CDC. (2024, January 22). Social Determinants of Health at CDC. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/about/sdoh/index.html
City-data.com. (n.d.). Modesto, California. City-data.com. Accessed May 7, 2024, from https://www.city-data.com/city/Modesto-California.html
County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. (2024). Stanislaus, California. County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/health-data/california/stanislaus
Hacker, K., Auerbach, J., Ikeda, R., Philip, C., & Houry, D. (2022). Social determinants of health—an approach taken at CDC. Journal of Public Health Management and Practice: JPHMP, 28(6), 589–594. https://doi.org/10.1097/phh.0000000000001626
Shahzad, M., Upshur, R., Donnelly, P., Bharmal, A., Wei, X., Feng, P., & Brown, A. D. (2019). A population-based approach to integrated healthcare delivery: a scoping review of clinical care and public health collaboration. BMC Public Health, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-019-7002-z
United States Census Bureau. (n.d.). QuickFacts: Modesto city, California [Data set]. In Communications Directorate – Center for New Media and Promotion. Accessed May 7, 2024, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/modestocitycalifornia/PST045222
U.S. Census Bureau. (n.d.). S0101: Age and Sex – Census Bureau Table. Census.gov. Accessed May 12, 2024, from https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST1Y2022.S0101?g=160XX00US0648354 Proposed Population-based Intervention Assignment
