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Researchers at the University of Hawaiʻi are working to understand the challenges Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Filipino adults face in joining prediabetes intervention programs. These groups face higher rates of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes compared to others.
A recent study by UH Mānoa’s Healthy Hawaiʻi Evaluation Team, in partnership with the Hawaiʻi Department of Health and Hawaiʻi Primary Care Association, looked at the barriers keeping people from joining and staying in these programs.
Why these programs matter
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Programs like the National Diabetes Prevention Program Lifestyle Change Program (National DPP LCP) help delay or prevent type 2 diabetes. But many people are hesitant to sign up. Common concerns include time commitments, caregiving duties, and a lack of familiarity with the program.
“Our study gathered insights directly from Native Hawaiian and Filipino adults, who are often left out of research like this,” said lead author Kara Saiki from UH Mānoa’s Thompson School of Social Work & Public Health. “We also highlighted how two rural Hawaiʻi programs successfully recruited and retained participants. This can help others better reach these communities.&rdquo
Trusted coaches make a difference
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The study found that lifestyle coaches play a key role in encouraging participation. Coaches who are trusted community members provide personalized support and help participants stick with the program.
“Coaches understand the unique challenges our communities face and connect participants to local resources,” said Jermy Domingo, health equity director at the Hawaiʻi Primary Care Association. “Their support makes the program’s lessons practical and builds trust with participants.”
The bigger picture
The study shows that community-based strategies are essential for improving health and preventing diabetes in underserved groups. By addressing specific challenges and offering personalized support, these programs can better serve Hawaiʻi’s diverse population.
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