At Campbell University, a vibrant crowd gathered for the 14th Annual Interprofessional Education Health Sciences Research Symposium. Students, faculty, and staff came together to share their research, engage with peers, and compete for honors. About 65 students from various health science programs participated, showcasing their projects and building networks that will serve them in their careers.
Stephen Marquardt, a student pursuing a Master of Physician Assistant Practice, and his teammate Nikita Janodia presented their findings on opioid use in patients with chronic pain. Their study, which analyzed data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey covering 2010-2019, revealed startling statistics. They found that adults diagnosed with chronic pain were significantly more likely—11.5 times more, to be precise—to receive opioids than those without such a diagnosis. Marquardt noted, “It was absolutely mind-blowing to us.”
This inquiry is timely and essential, especially in light of the ongoing opioid crisis in the U.S., which has escalated in recent years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 71,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in 2021, with opioids being involved in over 80% of those cases. Understanding how chronic pain patients are treated can offer valuable insights into this public health challenge.
Marquardt and Janodia discovered that around 57% of chronic pain patients left their medical visits with a prescription for opioids. This is considerably higher than figures found in other studies, which typically report rates between 20% and 30%.
The symposium featured a variety of other research projects, reflecting a broad spectrum of health-related topics. Medical students Lauren Wozny and Anna Dederowski delved into the microbiota-gut-brain axis and its implications for neurodegenerative diseases. Nearby, public health students Sarena Gresko and Jasmine Chanel discussed their research linking sleep duration and depression among U.S. adults. They found that people with less sleep often faced economic and educational disadvantages, highlighting racial disparities tied to mental health care.
Dr. Pam Edwards, chair of the Catherine W. Wood School of Nursing, emphasized the importance of research in healthcare. “For a healthcare professional, it’s really important that they contribute to the body of knowledge,” she remarked. She noted that developing skills in communication, technical writing, and collaboration is crucial for future healthcare professionals.
The symposium was not just an academic exercise but a real-world application of what students have learned. As they stood by their posters, students demonstrated professionalism and enthusiasm when sharing their findings. Edwards believes such experiences prepare them to work together across various disciplines, ultimately enhancing patient care.
Events like these raise awareness and promote discussions around pressing health issues. They help future professionals understand the complexities of healthcare and the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in providing effective solutions.
This year’s poster winners included research on diverse topics, from health economics to clinical case studies. These projects are not just academic; they carry the potential to influence healthcare practices and policies significantly.
For ongoing developments in healthcare research, consider checking reputable sources such as the CDC or the World Health Organization (WHO). Understanding these connections will empower future healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and foster healthier communities.
Check out this related article: Join the Fight Against Illness: Explore Kern County Public Health’s Impactful Disease Fighters Campaign
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