APRIL 2023
Highlighting New Research
In addition to networking and sharing Center updates, two UMASH researchers, Dr. Noelle Noyes and Dr. Florence Becot, presented about their current research projects, which were funded in the most recent renewal.
Dr. Noelle Noyes’ research seeks to understand the influence of farm biosecurity practices – like wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and showering before and after working with swine – on the skin and nasal microbiomes of swine workers. The ultimate goal is to identify risk factors and prevention measures to share with swine workers and producers.
Dr. Florence Becot’s research focuses on understanding the impact of individual and environmental influences on farmers and how likely they are to seek mental health support. The findings from this research will inform recommendations for improving farmer mental health broadly.
The meeting concluded with breakout discussions about emerging and re-emerging issues and strategies for using the One Health approach to promote agricultural health and safety. Discussions centered on rural and mental health care quality and access, workforce development, language access and justice, and more, all of which will support UMASH’s work and future planning.
One Health Explained