A Latino Patient-Centered, Evidence-Based Approach to Diabetes Prevention

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Evidence-based diabetes prevention programs (DPP) require cultural tailoring for diverse populations.
• Addressing obesity and related chronic diseases among Latinos in primary care necessitates culturally relevant interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the patient-centered process of culturally adapting an evidence-based DPP intervention for Latino populations.
• To report specific cultural adaptations made to enhance intervention congruence and effectiveness.

Main Methods:

• A 2-stage formative research process was employed.
• Stage I involved focus groups with Latino patients and interviews with primary care stakeholders.
• Stage II included pretesting the adapted intervention with a Latino patient advisory board.

Main Results:

• A patient-centered, stakeholder-engaged approach was utilized.
• The original intervention showed cultural congruence, with adaptations strengthening family and community support.
• Key adaptations included inviting family members, incorporating smartphone support, and providing culturally appropriate meals.

Conclusions:

• A 2-stage adaptation process engaging patients, families, providers, and leaders enhanced the cultural relevance of the DPP.
• Adaptations promoted Latino family and community support, reinforcing intervention congruence.