Cnsa Research Application

This document is Andrew K. Clawson’s application to the Canadian Nursing Students’ Association award: Canadian Association of Nursing Research (CANR) and CNSA Award. I apologize for using this format for the application, however this is the most feasible way for me to get you the required information and abstract by the deadline. All required information is present. If any concerns please do not hesitate to contact me. Name: Andrew K. Clawson Address: 1011 Fair Birch Drive City: Mississauga Province: Ontario Postal Code: l5h 1m4 Telephone: 705-868-2588 Name of Member School: Trent/Fleming SON Email address: [email protected] Alternate Contact: Address: 555 Bethune Street City: Peterborough Province: Ontario Postal Code: k9h 3z6 Abstract: Title: Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias: An Examination of Income Level and Prevalence Rates Author: Andrew K. Clawson Language of Preference: English

Abstract Text: Income is a major social determinant of health, it has been well documented there exists a health gradient between high income and low income persons; those who are high income earners can expect better health outcomes, and access to resources than those whom are low income earners (Marmot, 2005; Raine, 2005; Raphael, 2007 Reid, 2007). Although many diseases have been linked to income levels Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) has yet to be examined. This pilot study aims to explore the relationship of ADRD prevalence and income level. A mail out strategy based on census data will ascertain prevalence of ADRD based on the mean income level of a person’s postal code when they were 45 years of age, and self or power of attorney reported ADRD status. In this study, postal codes are the proxy measure for income. There is research on ADRD that tries to find risk factors for the disease (Hebert, Beckett, Scherr, & Evans, 2001; Heyman, Wilkinson, & Stafford. 1984; Rocca, 1991). Although these studies examined certain environmental factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption rates, they failed to look specifically at income levels and its relationship with the prevalence rate of ADRD. It is hoped that this studies findings will build a foundation for a larger more comprehensive exploration on the issues of income and other social determinants of health and their relationship with ADRD, as well as provide examination into the effectiveness of healthy social policy and prevalence of ADRD.

I, Andrew K. Clawson agree to the terms of the CANR and CNSA Joint Award. I further believe all statements in my application to be truthful. Andrew K. Clawson

November 21st, 2009