Eat for Life (EFL) is an NCI-funded, four-year study conducted in African American churches in the metropolitan Atlanta area. The goal of the program was to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among African Americans. Culturally sensitive materials were developed, including a video and cookbook which were provided to treatment participants to reach program goals. Recruitment and retention of subjects exceeded expectation, probably due to the involvement of the faith community from designing to execution of the program. One year post-test results showed that African Americans who used program materials increased fruit and vegetable consumption more than those who did not. One of the motivational strategies deployed was religious health messages, including a sermon and biblical texts that linked the health of one's body with faith/religion. Program outcomes revealed that participants who more spiritually motivated were more likely to improve dietary behavior than those less spiritually motivated. Implications of these findings is that research aimed at improving the health of African Americans could benefit from both partnering with faith institutions as well incorporating religious-based health messages.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to: 1. Identify methods deployed successfully in the recruitment and retainion of our church cohort 2. Recognize the value of religious motivation as a positive predictor of health behavior change
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.