Impact of Community-Based Lead Hazard Education on Parental Knowledge and Child Health Outcomes in Atlanta’s Westside Promise Zone
Abstract
Background: Lead poisoning is a significant preventable public health issue, particularly in marginalized, low-income areas. The prevalence of lead-based paint, contaminated soil, and outdated plumbing systems increases exposure risk, especially for children. This study examines lead-related issues in Atlanta's Westside Promise Zone. The EPA reports that over 40% of properties in this area have unsafe lead levels. Childhood lead exposure is linked to cognitive deficits and long-term health issues. This study assesses the impact of a community-based educational intervention on parental knowledge and child health outcomes related to lead exposure.
Methods: This quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test study uses the Social Ecological Model to examine how parental perceptions influence preventive behaviors. The intervention consists of four 90-minute workshops covering risks, mitigation strategies, and access to health services. Participants will engage in interactive discussions and hands-on activities. Pre- and post-test questionnaires will measure changes in knowledge and attitudes, analyzed using paired t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA in SPSS. Convenience sampling was utilized for preliminary data collection through surveys and focus groups.
Results: Preliminary findings from a survey and focus groups conducted in Atlanta’s Westside Promise Zone indicate a significant majority of participants (87.5%) identified as African American. Awareness of lead contamination sources was low, with 18.8% of participants reporting complete lack of awareness and 31.3% being "slightly aware." These findings suggest substantial community engagement potential. Survey results show that 68.8% of respondents were willing to participate in a lead testing and prevention program, and 81.3% believe a program will be effective in hazard mitigation and will support local governmental involvement in prevention initiatives.
Conclusion: The intervention will provide insights into effective educational strategies, emphasizing ongoing support and adaptation to local contexts. These findings can guide similar programs in Georgia by fostering community involvement, collaboration among health organizations, and improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations.
Keywords
Childhood Lead exposure, Westside Promise Zone, Risk Awareness, Community Engagement, Educational Intervention, Health Disparities, Parental Knowledge
Keywords
Childhood Lead exposure, Westside Promise Zone, Risk Awareness, Community Engagement, Educational Intervention, Health Disparities, Parental Knowledge
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Impact of Community-Based Lead Hazard Education on Parental Knowledge and Child Health Outcomes in Atlanta’s Westside Promise Zone
Background: Lead poisoning is a significant preventable public health issue, particularly in marginalized, low-income areas. The prevalence of lead-based paint, contaminated soil, and outdated plumbing systems increases exposure risk, especially for children. This study examines lead-related issues in Atlanta's Westside Promise Zone. The EPA reports that over 40% of properties in this area have unsafe lead levels. Childhood lead exposure is linked to cognitive deficits and long-term health issues. This study assesses the impact of a community-based educational intervention on parental knowledge and child health outcomes related to lead exposure.
Methods: This quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test study uses the Social Ecological Model to examine how parental perceptions influence preventive behaviors. The intervention consists of four 90-minute workshops covering risks, mitigation strategies, and access to health services. Participants will engage in interactive discussions and hands-on activities. Pre- and post-test questionnaires will measure changes in knowledge and attitudes, analyzed using paired t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA in SPSS. Convenience sampling was utilized for preliminary data collection through surveys and focus groups.
Results: Preliminary findings from a survey and focus groups conducted in Atlanta’s Westside Promise Zone indicate a significant majority of participants (87.5%) identified as African American. Awareness of lead contamination sources was low, with 18.8% of participants reporting complete lack of awareness and 31.3% being "slightly aware." These findings suggest substantial community engagement potential. Survey results show that 68.8% of respondents were willing to participate in a lead testing and prevention program, and 81.3% believe a program will be effective in hazard mitigation and will support local governmental involvement in prevention initiatives.
Conclusion: The intervention will provide insights into effective educational strategies, emphasizing ongoing support and adaptation to local contexts. These findings can guide similar programs in Georgia by fostering community involvement, collaboration among health organizations, and improving health outcomes in vulnerable populations.
Keywords
Childhood Lead exposure, Westside Promise Zone, Risk Awareness, Community Engagement, Educational Intervention, Health Disparities, Parental Knowledge
