Emmanuel Angmorteh Mensah, a doctor of public health candidate with the department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, has published an article titled “Prevalence and predictors of coronary heart disease among individuals with and without obesity in North Dakota” in PLOS ONE journal. The work was the outcome of his applied practice experience (APE) with the University of Tennessee-College of Veterinary Medicine (UTCVM) in Knoxville. His preceptor for the APE was Dr. Agricola Odoi who was assisted by Dr. Md Marufuzzaman Khan and Dr. Jennifer Lord. Other contributors to the work from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services were Dr. Grace Njau and Matthew Schmidt.
The study determined the prevalence and predictors of coronary heart disease (CHD) among North Dakota adults with and without obesity. Using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 2017 to 2021, the study found that obesity was a significant risk factor for CHD. Predictors of CHD for both individuals with and without obesity included age, sex, general health, high blood pressure, cholesterol, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes. In addition, having a personal doctor and arthritis were significant predictors for those without obesity. The findings can guide health planning and control programs to reduce CHD burden in North Dakota.
Mensah said, “The internship was a great learning experience and I am grateful to my preceptor and the other mentors. It is my hope they will continue accepting and mentoring other DrPH students from East Tennessee State University.”