Innovative approaches to promote weight management among minority women

Introduction: Obesity is the fastest-growing health problem in the country; approximately one third of all women in the United States are obese. Excess weight increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some cancers, among other chronic diseases. In 2004, the Division of Healthy Start and Perinatal Services (DHSPS) administered demonstration grants under the Innovative Approaches to Promoting Healthy Weight in Women program to develop creative, innovative approaches to reduce overweight and obesity by increasing the number of women, specifically those of reproductive age, who adopt healthy lifestyles. We reviewed 14 of the original demonstration grants to identify lessons learned.

Methods: We developed a Microsoft Access database through an iterative process using the Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Nonrandomized Designs (TREND) statement and grantee documents. Relevant information was abstracted from grantees' applications and reports. Informant interviews and site visits were conducted to gather additional data about the context of program implementation and to clarify and supplement previously abstracted information.

Results: We expect to identify specific program components and contextual factors that contributed to success across programs. Lessons learned and promising practices will be derived from a cross-program examination of facilitators and barriers to success.

Discussion: Initial review of findings suggests that evidenced-based/promising practices can be effective, particularly if they are adapted to target populations i.e., working with target populations to address barriers to participation. Results will support ongoing development and dissemination of innovative models to change knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of women and families around healthy weight.