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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
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The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA |
David DeRose, MD, MPH, Lifestyle Center of America, Rt 1, Box 4001, Goddard Youth Camp Road, Sulphur, OK 73086, 580-993-2327, drderose@brightok.net
Background: Millions of Americans with diabetes mellitus do not maintain recommended levels of glycemic control and thus place themselves at higher risk of diabetic complications. This fact argues for additional public health strategies to help individuals improve their diabetes self-management. One strategy for addressing this concern involves faith communities embracing a greater role in community-based diabetes programming. However, communities of faith are generally more likely to embrace programs perceived to be in harmony with their spiritual values. Objectives: To assess the impact of a train-the-trainer program designed to help Christian health professionals conduct church-based diabetes interventions. Methods: In January 2002, a 17-hour train-the-trainer workshop was offered to self-selected Christian health professionals who responded to workshop advertisements. The curriculum emphasized biblical counsel that supported current scientific evidence documenting the efficacy of lifestyle strategies (diet, exercise, weight loss, etc) to address diabetes mellitus and its complications. Results: 30 individuals completed the training and filled out pre and post-test instruments. Participants represented a broad demographic spectrum, racially, professionally, age-wise, and by region of residence. Based on a series of Likert-type questions participants indicated improvement in diabetes knowledge (p < .001), and increased confidence to design and implement community or church-based diabetes programming (p < .001). Additionally, participants indicated that they felt the Bible-based spiritual component would enhance their program's appeal and efficacy. Conclusion: Tailoring diabetes curricula to harmonize with the spiritual values of Christian faith communities may increase the likelihood that health professionals within those communities implement the strategies advocated.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Diabetes, Faith Community
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Lifestyle Center of America (developed the curricula discussed in the paper)
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: full-time employee of the Lifestyle Center of America