Diabetes Prevention in Adolescents: Co-design Study Using Human-Centered Design Methodologies.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Pediatric obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) present a significant public health challenge.
• Adolescent T2D is linked to adverse health outcomes and reduced lifespan.
• There is an urgent need for effective T2D prevention strategies for at-risk youth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To co-design a diabetes prevention program for adolescents using human-centered design.
• To understand environmental factors influencing lifestyle changes for T2D risk reduction.
• To identify desired program characteristics and improve engagement in prevention efforts.

Main Methods:

• Human-centered design research sessions involving adolescents, parents, and professionals.
• Exploration of environmental facilitators and barriers to healthy lifestyle adoption.
• Investigation into adolescent and parent preferences for diabetes prevention programs.

Main Results:

• Barriers include financial constraints, limited healthy food access, lack of safe physical activity spaces, and competing priorities.
• Adolescents and parents favor interactive, hands-on programs with elements of fun, play, and community.
• Stakeholder insights reveal key factors for successful lifestyle modification.

Conclusions:

• Co-design empowers adolescents, parents, and professionals to create effective diabetes prevention programs.
• Addressing environmental factors and incorporating desired program elements are crucial for success.
• Human-centered design is a viable methodology for developing youth-focused health interventions.