MPH student driven by passion for health education, awareness
Nawaf Alnuwaysir, a second-year MPH student in epidemiology.
Meet Nawaf Alnuwaysir, a second-year MPH student in epidemiology with a passion for understanding the prevalence and impact of cardiovascular disease in Saudi Arabia.
Why did you decide to pursue an MPH at Ohio State?
My interests have been hovering around cardiovascular diseases since I was a kid, so I studied public health for my bachelor's and master’s. The MPH at Ohio State stood out to me because of the variety of interests among the faculty. I've been passionate about this field for a long time, and I'm eager to learn more from the faculty who have built such a remarkable program.
You’re passionate about the prevalence and impact of cardiovascular diseases in Saudi Arabia. Can you explain how this became an interest area for you?
Cardiovascular disease has been impacting many Saudis. There are many reasons why this issue is occurring. I have been investigating why this is a massive issue in Saudi since 2017. I have found that people lack the knowledge about what could increase the chance of heart disease.
Do you have any specific research goals related to cardiovascular diseases?
My interests are looking at the potential factors impacting heart disease that don’t get a lot of attention. Of course, everyone knows the common factors such as smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, etc. Some neglected potential factors I have been introduced to are height, genetics, sleeping, etc.
What has been the most impactful part of your time at Ohio State?
Many (experiences at) Ohio State have had an enormous impact on me. Serving as a representative for MPH-Epidemiology students and the president of Saudi Students Organization at Ohio State have impacted me positively.
The most important aspect has been developing my sense of self by being out in the field and exploring more about public health and its importance.
What do you hope to do after completing your degree?
I work as a lecturer at King Saud University, and my main goal is to teach the upcoming generations about epidemiology and public health and the importance of this field.
I seek to make a difference in the Framingham Heart Study. I am also planning to start a worldwide study related to the heart study in the upcoming years. In this study, I would like to address the neglected factors that play a role in developing heart diseases.
What advice would you give to students considering a degree in public health?
This field will help many individuals and communities. I always believed in and cared for my community. The public health field focuses on encouraging healthy lifestyles, researching to prevent diseases, and reducing mortality. I would emphasize to students who might consider the field that they might have a tremendous impact on people’s lives by studying public health.
