(O-3) Early Intervention Program Utilization Among Infants with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome in Massachusetts

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

12:00pm - 1:00pm ET

Location: Meeting Room 5

Poster Presenter(s)

Alyssa M. Pochkar, MPH (she/her/hers)

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Surveillance Epidemiologist
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
Cambridge, Massachusetts

Co-author(s)

MY

Mahsa M. Yazdy, PhD, MPH

Director
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
SR

Shari Robinson, DrPH(c), MPH, MS
EN

Eirini Nestoridi, MD

Associate Director
Division for Surveillance, Research, and Promotion of Perinatal Health, Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Massachusetts

Using survey data from 1154 Florida caregivers and mediation analysis, this study examines how neighborhood environments and social connectedness influence the health of children ages 0–5. Walkable, activity-friendly neighborhoods and stronger social connectedness were linked to better child health through both direct and indirect effects. Findings emphasize the need for place-based strategies that promote safe, connected communities, particularly for racial minority populations.