Implementation Science Analysis of Potential Organizational Settings for Young Adult-Tailored Diabetes Prevention...

One-quarter of young adults have prediabetes, yet preventive interventions in this age-group face well-documented challenges with engagement. We explored the acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of young adult-tailored diabetes prevention interventions in various potential host settings.

In this qualitative study, we conducted semistructured interviews with managers and leaders from three organization types in one region: 1) Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) providers, 2) young adult-serving community-based organizations (CBOs), and 3) community college health and basic needs directors. We analyzed themes using a general inductive approach followed by directed content analysis within an implementation science framework assessing appropriateness (essential skills and functions), acceptability (mission alignment and prioritization), and feasibility (available resources to enable success).

We interviewed 17 participants (5 DPP providers, 5 CBO representatives, 7 community college directors) from December 2024 through May 2025. We found high appropriateness for intervention in both CBOs and community colleges, while acceptability and feasibility of providing such interventions was highest in community colleges. DPPs were less promising settings for young adult adaptation, given their primary focus on middle-aged populations with little incentive or expertise to branch out into younger adults. Across organization types, many concrete strategies for youth centeredness emerged that could inform future intervention development.

Identifying organizations that reach young adults at high risk for diabetes and have an interest in and capacity for intervention is an important first step to developing scalable, sustainable prevention interventions for this population. We found high appropriateness among CBOs and community colleges, with highest acceptability and feasibility in community colleges.