Project PREP -- Using Promotoras to Improve Disaster Preparedness Among Latino Immigrants

BACKGOUND: Project PREP (Programa Para Responder a Emergencias con Preparación) is community-based, participatory research project that aims to reduce disparities in disaster preparedness among immigrant Latinos. We describe the efficacy of Project PREP to improve individual disaster preparedness.

METHODS: 242 Latinos immigrants in Los Angeles were recruited using respondent driven sampling, a chain referral sampling method that uses social network theory to gather a sample representative of the target population. Participants were randomized to either the experimental “platica” group (a small group discussion led by a promotora de salud), or the comparison “media” group (culturally-targeted, written materials on preparedness mailed to the home). Individual disaster preparedness was assessed pre-intervention (pre) and 3-months post-intervention (post).

RESULTS: 187 participants (77%) completed 3-month follow-up. Participants lost to follow-up did not differ significantly from participants who completed the study. Participants in the platica and media groups reported significantly increased preparedness with stockpiled water, food, radio, batteries, flashlights, first-aid kits, pet-food, blankets, rain-gear, cash, and written family communication plans (chi-sq test; p< 0.05). Platica group increases were greater than the media group's increases of water (platica pre=69%/post=95%; media pre=55%/post=80%), food (platica pre=72%/post=95%; media pre=67%/post=80%), blankets (platica pre=52%/post=79%; media pre=60%/post=64%) and written family communication plan (platica pre=40%/post=76%; media pre=29%/post=52%) (chi-sq test; all p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: This is one of the first randomized controlled trials of a culturally-targeted, disaster preparedness program. The program showed itself to be effective in increasing disaster preparedness in this vulnerable and difficult to reach population.