P74 A Community-Based Intervention Reduces Diabetes Risk in a Low-Income Community

Abstract

<h3>Objective</h3> Promote diabetes prevention in a low-income community by offering Cooking Matters (CM) in coordination with the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP). <h3>Use of Theory or Research</h3> Reducing food insecurity is important for reducing chronic disease rates. DPP is a validated and effective intervention that reduces progression to type 2 diabetes. However, there is an outcome disparity for DPP in low-income communities. Our research aims to improve DPP outcomes in low-income communities. <h3>Target Audience</h3> Pre-diabetic participants ≥18 years old in low-income communities in Detroit, Michigan. <h3>Program Description</h3> This study represents partnerships between Gleaners Community Food Bank (GCFB), National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM), and Wayne State University. DPP, administered by NKFM, is a community-based intervention that significantly reduces diabetes risk. CM, locally administered through GCFB, is another effective community program that teaches food skills, and provides food provisions. We hypothesize that combining DPP and CM in a low-income setting will improve program completion, and thereby reduce the risks for progressing to type 2 diabetes. <h3>Evaluation Methods</h3> Over 12 months, low-income individuals participated in the study. Demographics were collected at the onset of the study. Survey information was collected for diet and physical activity at 4 time-points throughout the study. Body weight was collected at every session, and HbA1C was collected at the onset and conclusion of the program. <h3>Results</h3> Combining DPP and CM resulted in a 79% completion rate, compared to the <50% completion rate observed for DPP alone in low-income communities. Mean HbA1C dropped 10.6% (paired t-test, <i>P</i> < .01), from pre-diabetic to normal levels, and every participant demonstrated lower post-test HbA1C values. Participants experienced a mean weight loss of 7.6% (paired t-test, <i>P</i> < .01), and >75% of participants exceeded 5% weight loss at 12 months. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Combining DPP and CM is effective at reducing diabetes risk in low-income communities. Food bank services, which already serve low-income vulnerable communities, can be coupled to existing chronic illness prevention programs to improve disease risk in vulnerable populations.