New findings on the role gender plays in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of heart disease will be among the research topics highlighted by faculty members and students from the UCLA School of Nursing at the annual Western Institute of Nursing Conference, which runs from April 11 to 13 in Anaheim, Calif.
At a special state-of-the-science panel on Saturday, April 13, UCLA professor Lynn V. Doering will present a review of gender differences in identification, treatment and outcomes for cardiovascular disease, with a focus on coronary atherosclerosis, heart failure and stroke. During the same panel, UCLA professor JoAnn Eastwood will introduce her novel study in which she is partnering with a community organization and using mobile health technologies to reduce cardiac risk factors among young minority women.
"Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women and accounts for more female deaths than all cancers and lung disease combined," Doering said. "Heart disease — particularly its symptoms — presents differently in women, and it is not so obvious in current testing, so it is harder to diagnose. The cutting-edge work that is being presented will provide critical information on diagnosis, treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease in women."
Also during the three-day conference, UCLA School of Nursing faculty and doctoral students will present symposia on health care and nursing education for vulnerable populations and on the behavioral symptoms of dementia.
During the symposium "Cultivating Nurse Leaders: A Framework for Nursing Education in Vulnerable Populations" on Friday, April 12, three UCLA nursing researchers will discuss their work on finding ways to eliminate the cultural, financial and language barriers that impact health care delivery. Health disparities continue to exist among vulnerable populations, the researchers stress, and addressing inequities requires mentoring and guiding new nurse–scientists to conduct research in this important area.
On Saturday, April 13, "Promoting the Health of Vulnerable Populations" will take a look at the challenges of meeting the health care needs of four vulnerable populations: homeless men on parole, homeless men and women who suffer from frailty, methamphetamine users who are mothers, and American Indians suffering effects of abuse.
With an aging population, the prevalence of dementia is increasing, creating an impending health care crisis. A report last week in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that dementia care is projected to double by 2040. During their April 12 symposium, "Detecting and Characterizing Patterns of Behavioral Symptoms of Dementia," UCLA nursing researchers will discuss current interventions and effective treatments for this behavioral challenge.
The Western Institute of Nursing is a professional organization of registered nurses and other healthcare professionals dedicated to advancing nursing science, education and practice to improve healthcare outcomes.
The UCLA School of Nursing is redefining nursing through the pursuit of uncompromised excellence in research, education, practice, policy and patient advocacy.
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Media Contact:
Laury Perry
Laury Perry
