Community-Based Participatory Research: A Vehicle to Promote Public Engagement for Environmental Health in China
2008

Community-Based Participatory Research in China

Commentary Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ali Robbie, Olden Kenneth, Xu Shunqing

Primary Institution: Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh

Hypothesis

Can community-based participatory research (CBPR) effectively address environmental health problems in China?

Conclusion

CBPR can potentially help improve environmental health in China, but it is likely to take a different form than it has in the West because the government will be leading the way.

Supporting Evidence

  • CBPR has been recognized as a valuable approach to improve public health and environmental conditions.
  • The Chinese government has made environmental protection a high priority.
  • Community involvement in research can lead to actionable changes in environmental health policies.

Takeaway

This study suggests that involving communities in research can help solve environmental health issues in China, but it will need to be guided by the government.

Methodology

The article discusses the principles and successes of community-based participatory research (CBPR) in the U.S. and its potential application in China.

Potential Biases

The reliance on government leadership may limit the independence of community initiatives.

Limitations

The article does not provide specific empirical data or case studies from China to support its claims.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1289/ehp.11399

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication