Dulce Mothers: A Community Approach to Reduce the Risks of Developing Diabetes After GDM

The goal of this research study is to adapt the methods used in the national trial, Diabetes Prevention Program, DPP, to the specific needs of high-risk, low-income Latino women with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM). This study provides the scientific knowledge needed to replicate a prevention intervention for mothers with one of the most common complications of pregnancy who are at the highest risk for developing type 2 diabetes. It is hypothesized that the approach used in DPP can be adapted to address the needs and culture of high risk Latino women. Community Health Workers (Promotoras) are trained to deliver the culturally adapted curriculum. The Promotoras recruit, teach and follow up with individuals entered into the research study. An educational intervention aimed at delivering a comprehensive curriculum based on the principles of the DPP to a cohort of 70 women, the Dulce Mothers Program consists of educational sessions, guidance for physical activity, and behavior change maintenance activities for Latino women with a history of GDM. Results have been very promising to date, with weight loss, cholesterol and triglycerides all showing decreasing trends at the end of the 6 month study. In addition, the average retention rate for this study is at 80%, higher than most clinical studies, likely due to the large role of the promotoras in the participants' experience in the research study.