IN BRIEF
This project identifies infant nutrition patterns in Roanoke and the surrounding area, as well as some of the socioeconomic, demographic, and policy-related determinants of infant nutrition decisions. It is a unique data collection initiative, carried out by implementing a survey, and intended to serve a variety of local stakeholders, ranging from WIC to breastfeeding support groups like BREAST Roanoke.
The main contribution of the project is to fill a gap in data on infant feeding in our area and on challenges and resources for mothers during baby’s first year of life. Additionally, the project tests a set of hypotheses regarding determinants of infant nutrition outcomes, with a focus on two broad categories: (1) socio-demographics; and (2) community culture and resources.
WHAT MATTERS FOR INFANT NUTRITION?
STUDIES SO FAR SUGGEST THAT ALL OF THE FOLLOWING FACTORS MATTER:
INCOME
EDUCATION
RACE AND ETHNICITY
SUPPORT STRUCTURES
CULTURAL INTERPRETATIONS OF FORMULA AND BREAST MILK
HOSPITAL PRACTICES
WHAT REALLY MATTERS FOR FAMILIES AND BABIES IN THE ROANOKE AREA?
OUR TIMELINE
PARTICIPANT RIGHTS
The Study Information Sheet is available for download HERE. Some details are below.
How will you protect the information you collect from me, and how will that information be shared?
The data are collected anonymously. Your survey responses are not linked to your name or other personal information that could reveal your identity. Furthermore, if results of this study are published or presented, the data will be reported in aggregate and exclude personally identifiable information.
What are my rights as a research participant?
Participation in this study is voluntary. You do not have to answer any question you do not want to answer. If at any time and for any reason, you would prefer not to participate in this study, please feel free not to. You may withdraw from this study at any time, and you will not be penalized in any way for deciding to stop participation. If you decide to withdraw before finishing the study, the data collected will not be used.
Whom can I contact if I have questions or concerns about this research study?
If you have questions, you may contact the principal investigator, Andreea Mihalache-O’Keef (mihalache@roanoke.edu; 540-375-5297), at any time.
If you have any questions about your rights as a participant in this research, you can contact the following office at Roanoke College and reference IRB Study # 21005.
Institutional Review Board
Roanoke College
221 College Lane—Admin 204A
Salem, Virginia 24153
540-375-5249 e-mail: irb@roanoke.edu