List of projects

A sex-stratified analysis of alcohol consumption

The CDC define excessive alcohol consumption as ≥ 5 beverages per day.

Among 2,184 adults (aged 21-40), the overall prevalence of excessive alcohol consumption was 16%, with a notable sex disparity of 7% for women and 25% for men, reflecting potential male-specific social norms, biological tolerance differences, and other factors.

Data: NHANES (2017-2020)
Software: RStudio 4.4.1

Effect of being overwieght/obese on diabetes among children

Age is an effect measure modifier in the correlation between weight and diabetes.

In 12-15 and 16-19 year olds (N=929), the odds of being diagnosed with diabetes are 3.785 and 1.855 times higher, respectively, for those who are overweight/obese compared to those who are underweight/normal weight. As age is not a confounder in this relationship, this emphasizes the vitality of development in diagnosis.

Data: NHANES (2017-2020)
Software: RStudio 4.4.1

Using Hofstede’s cultural dimensions to predict student’s pedagogical preferences

Can scores on Hofstede’s individualist-collectivist scale be predictive?

With my team, we collected primary data on students’ cultural dimensions (CDs), particularly the individualistic-collectivistic scale, against preferred teaching methods (PMs) to produce a predictive model. After our analysis, we noted no correlation between CDs and PMs.

This enriching, semester-long research project taught me first-hand that accepting a null hypothesis is still a result within itself!

Data: Survey (self-administered)
Software: SPSS

Waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) versus body mass index (BMI)

Is BMI or waist-to-hip ratio a better predictor of heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension?

In this analysis of 2,767 male subjects, I found that the relationship between waist and hip circumference is linear (R² = 84%), with some indications of logarithmic patterns. Additionally, while WHR is an under-utilized indicator, it has limitations (like BMI), particularly in accounting for natural, individual variations in body shape.

Data: NHANES (2017-2020)
Software: RStudio 4.4.1

Solidarity in the BTS ARMY fandom: Comparing veteran and rookie stans

Fandoms go beyond music to create lasting bonds and impactful community action.

In a comparative study of veteran (pre-2016) and rookie (post-2016) BTS fans, I explored how solidarity differs in terms of formality. My findings revealed that veterans emphasize “doing” through active membership, monetary support, and mechanic organization, while rookies focus on “being” by fostering inclusivity and emotional support.

Data: Online Focus Groups (self-conducted)
Software: Requal, Beey.io, Coggle.it

The association between cancer and maternal age at first birth among women aged 20-59

Postponing childbirth is a trend with biomedical implications.

In OECD countries, average age at first birth (AFB) increased from early 20s to late 30s; late AFB is linked with perinatal and maternal outcomes, including increased cancer risk. In this cross-sectional study, I explored the correlation between cancer prevalence and early, ideal, and late AFB among 1,749 NHANES subjects, uncovering unexpected findings.

Data: NHANES (2017-2020)
Software: RStudio 4.4.1

“Beyond pure health”: Exploring diagnostic pathways, quasi-medicalization, and patient expertise in dermatology

A diagnosis is considered the cornerstone of clinical practice, shaping patients’ understanding of health.

However, this significance is declining due to increased patient autonomy, particularly evident in the field of dermatology. In this thesis, I re-consider the position of diagnosis in the dermatological context, noting that while the pursuit of “optimal” well-being is justified in the name of health, some skin and hair diseases are minimized, beautified, or embraced in the form of body positivity.

Data: Interviews (self-conducted)
Software: ATLAS.ti, Beey.io

Policy brief: Saudi Arabia’s untapped cultural potential in the post-petroleum era

Soft power is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) greatest untapped resource.

To diversity from an oil-dependent economy, KSA established Vision 2030—a strategic plan for the future. In this policy brief, I demonstrate why moving the cultural industry from the sidelines to the core of the strategy can not only improve the nation’s private sector, FDIs, and youth employment, but raise KSA on the global stage.

Data: Gov’t Documents, National Survey
Software: N/A

A push towards ‘precise’ pancreatic cancer prevention

Despite claiming 1 in every 6th life globally, PC receives low public health funding.

In this epidemiological report, I analyzed global age-standardized incidence and mortality rates, modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, and current standards of treatment and tertiary prevention. I proposed a dual (primary and secondary) prevention mechanism focusing on ‘precision’ medicine—genetic risk assessment and machine learning predictive models for lifestyle and metabolic conditions.

Data: Global Cancer Observatory (GCO)
Software: N/A

Flattening the curve: Korea’s Covid-19 policy implementation

What is the ideal way for governments to handle a sudden, high-caliber crisis?

South Korean has been praised for eliminating uncertainties of the Covid-19 outbreak by rapidly '“flattening the curve.” After an in-depth analysis, I identified five key factors behind their success; these included learning from past infectious disease outbreaks, robust ICT surveillance, and a comprehensive whole-government approach. Additionally, I highlighted that success is measured by stability across three fronts: economic, political, and social.

Data: Textual and Statistical Reports
Software: N/A

Ministry of Health micro study: Tobacco use in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, over 70,000 people die from tobacco each year.

In this policy analysis, I found that standardized packaging has decreased the misinterpretation that some cigarettes are more harmful than others, the demand for standardized packages, and smoking cravings, thereby increasing quitting and avoidance behaviors. However, current data confidence is low, and taxation on tobacco products may be more effective, as noted by the World Health Organization.

Data: Cochrane Library Review
Software: N/A

Determinants of mental health status among cancer patients and survivors in South Korea

Cancer produces physiological and psychological burdens for patients.

As the incidence of cancer continues to rise alongside improving survival rates, it is essential to deepen our understanding of cancer patients and survivors—an expanding demographic. In this cross-sectional study, we explored the association between cancer status and mental health in South Korea (N=2,065), where cancer is the leading cause of premature mortality amidst a national mental health crisis.

Data: KNHANES (2010-2021)
Software: SAS 9.4, RStudio 4.4.1, DAGitty