Reducing inequities of access to health information and resources for Latino communities: A newsletter series promoting healthy lifestyles

Background: Latino communities suffer a disproportionate burden of chronic diseases associated with their socioeconomic status, environment and access to information. Many of the printed health education materials are not accessible due to language and literacy barriers, and often lack cultural relevancy. With these challenges, the knowledge gap continues to increase in these underserved communities.Objective: To provide equitable access to health information to prevent chronic diseases and support behavior change in Latino communities. Method: A newsletter series was developed to address prevention, behavioral change, and healthy living. Each newsletter was designed to address the inequities in health literacy and access to culturally relevant health solutions. The newsletters have a simple format, are written in low literacy and contain appropriate graphics. They include recipes and information that represent traditional customs and foods. The newsletters are also sensitive to accessible resources and environmental factors of the local population. The newsletters are distributed bi-monthly to demonstrate continued support of engaging in healthy behaviors. Adults enroll in the newsletter series when they attend our workshops and events or by request. Results: Newsletter subscribers reported increased knowledge of the health benefits of cultural foods. Ninety percent of readers contacted reported making positive dietary changes to reduce their risk of chronic diseases based on the information contained in the newsletters.