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Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4356-9718

Date Available

4-23-2026

Year of Publication

2026

Document Type

Graduate Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)

College

Public Health

Department/School/Program

Public Health

Faculty

Anna Goodman Hoover

Committee Member

Paula Arnett

Faculty

Rachel Graham

Faculty

Margaret McGladrey

Abstract

Maternal and infant health outcomes are key indicators of population health, yet persistent disparities exist in rural communities across the United States. In Kentucky, Franklin County reflects this pattern, with concerning maternal and infant health indicators despite relatively favorable socioeconomic conditions. Identified challenges include elevated rates of poor physical and mental health days, high drug overdose mortality, provider shortages, and ongoing reproductive health concerns such as tobacco use during pregnancy and increased infant mortality associated with elevated maternal body mass index.

To address these gaps, a three-pronged, community-based prenatal and postpartum physical activity and education program is proposed. The program aims to improve outcomes by promoting safe physical activity, increasing awareness of modifiable perinatal risk factors, and strengthening social support among participants. Weekly group sessions will be delivered in accessible community settings and will include structured exercise, educational modules on topics such as maternal mental health and substance use, and facilitated peer discussion.

Short-term outcomes include increased participant engagement, improved knowledge of perinatal health, and enhanced self-reported mental well-being and physical activity levels. Long-term outcomes aim to support healthy gestational weight gain and reduce risk factors associated with adverse pregnancy and infant outcomes. Implementation will be led by the Franklin County Health Department in collaboration with public health, clinical, and academic partners. Designed to be cost-efficient and integrated within existing community infrastructure, this program may serve as a scalable model for improving maternal and infant health outcomes in rural communities.

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