Study protocol for evaluating Brown Buttabean Motivation (BBM): a community-based, Pacific-driven approach to health

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Obesity Research
• Indigenous Health

Background:

• Buttabean Motivation (BBM) is a Pacific-led organization in New Zealand targeting obesity reduction in Pacific and Māori populations.
• BBM employs a holistic approach, integrating mental health, family, and cultural factors into nutrition and physical activity strategies.
• Obesity rates are disproportionately high in collectivist cultures, including indigenous and migrant populations, within Western societies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the BBM program for sustained health and wellbeing outcomes.
• To assess outcomes for both general BBM members and participants in the 'From the Couch' program for morbid obesity.
• To determine if BBM members achieve and maintain weight loss over time.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental pre-post quantitative cohort study design was utilized.
• Weight measurements were taken at various intervals for both general and 'From the Couch' cohorts.
• Weight data were analyzed using a general linear mixed model, compared against a literature-based prediction model via meta-analysis. The Māori scale of health and well-being, Hua Oranga, was used for secondary outcome analysis.

Main Results:

• The study is evaluating sustained weight loss and health outcomes from the BBM program.
• Analysis will compare BBM participant outcomes with a prediction model derived from mixed-method meta-analysis.
• Changes in pre- and post-scores on the Hua Oranga scale will be assessed.

Conclusions:

• If sustained weight loss is demonstrated, the culturally informed, community-based BBM approach could offer a beneficial model for other indigenous and migrant populations.
• The findings will contribute to understanding effective strategies for long-term obesity management in high-risk ethnic groups.
• This research highlights the importance of culturally relevant interventions for improving health and wellbeing outcomes.