This course is designed to provide a foundation and scope of knowledge pertaining to the myriad of complex issues impacting border health. Students will critically and reflectively examine issues, information, data, and services that influence the quality of life of individuals and communities living in border regions. Specifically, students will review and analyze border health problems and programs focusing on cancer, and the development of possible solutions for the US-Mexico border region.

As part of the NMSU/FHCRC: Partnership for the Advancement of Cancer Research, Pilot Project 4: Graduate Training in Cancer Research and Health Disparities, FHCRC-UW graduate students have the opportunity to spend time in New Mexico and Mexico, working with minority populations.

During two weeks (July 20-31, 09), the students will learn about the Mexican and the U.S. health systems, and how the Hispanic and border population interact and respond to their health needs. Special attention will be given to cancer, studying the epidemiology of the disease among Hispanic and border populations, learning about the different programs available and their extension and impact. This year, the course includes a public health intervention in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico.

Course objectives

By the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. Understand conceptual issues in border health, with emphasis in the US-Mexico border.
2. Understand the cancer epidemiological profile of border population.
3. Identify US and Mexico public health systems differences.
4. Identify cancer related public and health care services among the US-Mexico border population.

Students will be expected to:

1. Gain skills and experience in intervening with population groups that experience cancer health disparities.
2. Understand how to develop and use culturally appropriate materials and intervention channels for the prevention of cervical cancer.
3. Gain familiarity with the promotora approach to health promotion.
4. Read and familiarize with required readings ( Course Readings) before July 20th, 2009.

Course Syllabus

NMSU students, click here to open the course syllabus file.