Perceptions and Practices of Diabetes Prevention Among African Americans Participating in a Faith-Based Community...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Community Health Interventions
• Chronic Disease Prevention

Background:

• Black churches play a vital role in community health and chronic disease reduction.
• Limited research exists on the role of Black churches in addressing pre-diabetes among African Americans.
• Pre-diabetes represents a critical window for intervention to prevent type 2 diabetes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore perceptions and practices related to diabetes prevention among African Americans with pre-diabetes.
• To assess the impact of a church-based intervention (the Hosea Project) on pre-diabetes management.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to participation in church-based diabetes prevention programs.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving interviews and focus groups with 51 participants.
• Data collected 2 months post-intervention.
• Thematic analysis to identify emergent themes.

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated varying levels of understanding regarding pre-diabetes and diabetes.
• Knowledge about diabetes prevention strategies was identified.
• Key themes included perceived program benefits, encountered barriers, low male participation, and reported behavioral changes.

Conclusions:

• Black churches are suitable settings for implementing pre-diabetes health education and behavior change interventions.
• Culturally relevant and tailored programs are essential for promoting diabetes prevention strategies in African American communities.
• Further research should explore strategies to enhance male engagement in church-based health programs.