Social justice for African Americans and Hispanic Americans: Intervention research funded by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

A panel of investigators from Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Hispanic Serving Institutions will present findings from five community-based intervention research studies conducted with the aim of reducing health disparities and improving health outcomes. The first study focuses on developing strategies for reducing child obesity in a rural Hispanic community using family-based intervention strategies. A second study identifies strategies for increasing adherence to drug regimens among older African Americans and reducing over-the-counter medication usage. The third study provides information about strategies for increasing the participation of African American males in prostate cancer screening. The fourth study will describe community-based strategies to increase diabetes self-management among African Americans. The fifth study provides information about the use of fotonovelas for improving management of diabetes and hypertension among African Americans. Each presenter will present policy implications and highlight social justice issues. Findings from these studies will contribute to the knowledge base regarding effective strategies for reaching African American and Hispanic American populations, assist with health behavior change, and contribute to the reduction of health disparities.