ECU researchers conducting community health needs survey
As part of East Carolina University’s mission to reduce premature mortality in eastern North Carolina, researchers involved in a multi-disciplinary effort dubbed “the Lincoln Project” are conducting a community health needs assessment survey in Pitt and Onslow counties through July 13.
Researchers in the cardiovascular sciences and psychology departments will use data collected from the survey to better understand participants’ health care needs and access to care, and to inform community-based intervention efforts aimed at improving cardiovascular health and longevity among the region’s residents.
Community members will receive an introductory letter followed by the needs assessment survey with a self-addressed return envelope. Participants also have the option to complete the survey online or by phone. All information collected will be held in strict confidence.
Each year, more than 900,000 Americans die prematurely from the five leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, stroke and accidental injuries. According to a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as many as 40 percent of these deaths could be prevented.
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About the Lincoln Project
The Lincoln Project is a multi-disciplinary research effort focused on reducing the impact of out-of-hospital premature natural death in 29 North Carolina counties. The research team is focused on identifying medical and social drivers of health and well-being in eastern North Carolina. Research findings will support community specific interventions, inform federal, state and local policy decisions and assist clinicians to develop medical “best practices” to prevent out-of-hospital premature natural death.
About East Carolina University
East Carolina University, or ECU as it’s best known, offers more than 85 bachelor’s, 72 master’s and 19 doctoral degrees to nearly 29,000 students on its Greenville, North Carolina, campus and through an acclaimed online learning program. The university’s school of medicine is recognized nationally for producing primary care physicians, cardiovascular research, advanced robotic surgery as well as obesity and diabetes breakthroughs. ECU also boasts the largest business school enrollment and largest number of new nurses and education professionals produced by a four-year North Carolina university, in addition to the largest studio art program in the state.
Located near Atlantic coast harbors where pirates once roamed, ECU adopted the “Pirates” mascot in 1934 for its athletics program and competes in NCAA Division 1. The university has a globally recognized academic underwater archaeology program and enjoys a supportive relationship with the U.S. military services.
ECU News Services
Howard House, 1001 E. Fifth Street
Greenville, NC 27858
ecunews@ecu.edu
Phone: 252-328-6481
news.ecu.edu
Contact: Matt Smith, Communications Specialist, Division of Research, Economic Development and Engagement, smithmatt17@ecu.edu
Telephone: 252-737-5423
Note to media: Lincoln Project researchers are available for interviews upon request.