About the Author
My name is Michael Royce Tan, and I am a passionate healthcare professional with a background in clinical nursing who is currently pursuing my Master of Public Health at the University of Michigan. My journey in healthcare has deepened my commitment to improving health outcomes at both individual and community levels. After years of bedside nursing, I'm now finding my way in public health, exploring how data and research can drive meaningful change.
I have been fortunate to contribute to research with the California Teachers Study (CTS) team. This experience has expanded my understanding of epidemiological research, equipping me with valuable skills in SAS programming, statistical analysis, and data visualization.
Collaborating with the CTS team has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Their diverse expertise in statistics, public health, and study design has broadened my perspective on population health research. Through discussions and collaborative meetings, I saw firsthand how effective communication and teamwork strengthen research methodology. Their guidance, feedback, and generosity in sharing knowledge helped me refine my analytical approach and present findings effectively.
My Research Project
My research project compared the age distribution of CTS participants over time to the age distribution of the general adult female population in California (CA). Understanding the similarities and differences between these populations can help provide insights into longevity and factors that contribute to a longer, healthier life. My project explored the question: “Are CTS participants older on average than the general CA population?”
Using CTS and Census data, I categorized participants into age groups to observe trends from 2000 to 2022. For each year, I excluded any age group that had fewer than one hundred participants. Using this methodology, I was able to compare trends in the CTS vs. CA by looking at frequency distributions, percentage differences, and data visualizations.
What I Found
Comparing the age structures of both populations revealed very interesting trends. As a closed cohort with no new members, the CTS is a fixed population that has moved through the natural aging process. Due to this aging process, I observed a decrease in younger participants (25-39) over time. I also observed a gradual transition over time in the middle age groups (40 – 64); initially these participants made up a larger proportion of the CTS population, but over time this proportion decreased as participants aged through life stages together.
The most notable pattern emerged in the older age groups (age 65+), where the CTS population showed steady growth, particularly among those age 75+. This pattern led to an increasing gap between CTS participants and the general CA female population over time. These findings reflect both the natural aging process and offer important insights on longevity. Further research and additional analysis could provide meaningful insights into healthy aging.
Future Goals
As I look ahead, I am eager to contribute meaningfully to healthier, more resilient communities. I remain committed to continuous learning and growth, grateful for the mentors, colleagues, and experiences that have shaped my path. The road ahead is full of opportunities, and I look forward to embracing them with curiosity and purpose. Above all, I am committed to making a difference - one step, one project, and one patient at a time.