Events, Previous conferences, 2016 Conference, Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont

About the Conference

2016 Conference Program

Personal behavior patterns (i.e., lifestyle) increase risk for chronic disease and premature death. Unhealthy behaviors (e.g., physical inactivity/unhealthy food choices, tobacco use, prescription opioid abuse) represent the leading cause of chronic disease and premature deaths in the U.S. and are a major driver behind spiraling healthcare costs. These risk behaviors are over-represented among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations and are major contributors to the problem of health disparities.

During the VCBH Conference, scholars from leading universities and medical centers will share their research and knowledge on how to apply the concepts and methods of behavioral economics to improve scientific understanding and clinical outcomes with these highly challenging and costly public health problems.

The Keynote Speaker

Kelly D. Brownell, Ph.D., is Dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University, Robert L. Flowers Professor of Public Policy, and Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience. He serves on the board of directors of the Duke Global Health Institute. In 2006, Time magazine listed him among “The World’s 100 Most Influential People” featuring those “whose power, talent or moral example is transforming the world.”

The Hilton Hotel

Situated on the waterfront, Hilton Burlington offers expansive views of the scenic Lake Champlain and the picturesque Adirondacks. With itsconvenient location, on-site amenities and substantial event space, the hotel has something for everyone. Explore the area’s many attractions and activities including a scenic lake cruise on The Spirit of Ethan Allen. The hotel is two blocks from the historic Church Street Marketplace; minutes from Burlington International Airport and Interstate 89.

The Program & Poster Abstracts

Now in its fourth year, the VCBH interdisciplinary conference on “Behavior Change, Health & Health Disparities” brings scholars from leading U.S. universities and medical centers to Burlington, Vermont. This year has the added focus of “Health Implications of Marijuana Legalization.”  Click here for the schedule and lineup of speakers. Here are the tobacco poster abstracts and the general health poster abstracts.