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Behavioral Medicine

Bonnie Spring Laboratory

Dr. Spring’s research projects and clinical trials are conducted simultaneously at Northwestern University, the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and at Hines VA Medical Center. Major funding for the research program comes via grants from the National Institutes of Health, VA Merit Review program, and foundations, such as the American Heart Association and American Cancer Society.

Our research addresses the development and execution of interventions to reduce unhealthy behaviors that place individuals at risk for poor health outcomes. Currently, we have several studies that are either ongoing or recently completed. The research group consists of post-doctoral fellows, research staff, and volunteer research assistants that play a role in one or more of these studies.

Standing (l-r): Jennifer Duncan, Bonnie Spring, Andrew DeMott, Arlen Moller, Gene McFadden
  Seated (l-r): Kelly Neville, Stephanie Russell, Jocelyn Vaughn

Make Better Choices Study

We are currently conducting a study that examines how to best combine dietary and physical activity recommendations in order to maximize the benefit of these interventions. Specifically, we are comparing the effectiveness of interventions that attempt to increase healthy behaviors to those which attempt to reduce unhealthy behaviors.

Activating Collaborative CIS Support Services (ACCISS)

This study examines the impact of a simple intervention (a targeted letter to patients) in promoting use of the Cancer Information Service (CIS) by underserved populations, improving patient-provider communication, and encouraging timely medical follow up in women at risk for cervical cancer.

VA PDA+

In the area of obesity treatment, we have an ongoing study that assesses the implementation of technological support tools in the treatment of obesity and pain management among veterans. The intervention in the current study involves provision of a personal digital assistant (PDA), a hand-held computer decision support tool to self-regulate diet and activity along with staff support (via telephone or e-mail per patient’s preference).

Evidence-Based Behavioral Practice Development

The EBBP Project creates on-line training resources to help bridge the gap between behavioral research and practice. Taking a team science approach, professionals from the major health disciplines are collaborating to learn, teach, and implement evidence-based behavioral practice (EBBP).   Available at www.ebbp.org are the project’s free learning modules about:  1) the evidence-based practice process; 2) searching for evidence; 3) systematic reviews; 4) randomized controlled trials; 5) critical appraisal.  Preparation of the next module, on decision-making, is in process. 

 

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Couch Potato Study