1238-P: Developing a Culturally Tailored Social-Support Group Visit Model for South Asian Immigrants with Type 2 Diabetes in Atlanta

Background: Lifestyle interventions can prevent, delay, and improve management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, implementation of these programs is challenging in diverse populations. South Asians have higher risk for T2D, yet to date, there have been limited programs specifically for this community. The aim of this project was to develop and test the feasibility of a tailored group visit model for South Asians based in a family medicine clinic.

Methods: In conjunction with a local community-academic board, we conducted focus groups to tailor an existing evidence-based curriculum to a culturally acceptable lifestyle interventions program for South Asians with T2D or prediabetes. Fourteen participants enrolled in the 16-week program focusing on healthy diet, exercise, and weight loss. Weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, HbA1C, were measured at the beginning and end of study. Participants were asked to evaluate each session on level of satisfaction. One tailed t-tests were used to test significance of pre-post changes in outcomes.

Results: Ten of 14 participants had baseline and follow-up data. Participant attendance averaged 50%. Statistically significant reductions in mean weight (-3.16lbs, p<0.05), systolic/diastolic blood pressure (-12.7mmHg, p<0.05/-3.7mmHg p<0.05, respectively), and triglycerides (-62.6 mg/dl, p<0.05) were noted. Overall, participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the program.

Discussion: A lifestyle program based in primary care is feasible and acceptable for South Asian immigrants. Larger studies testing the effectiveness of group programs, based in primary care, in improving cardiometabolic factors and weight reduction are important. Overall, these interventions may have broader application to other culturally cohesive communities.