543-P: A Peer-Led Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) and Support (DSMS) Intervention for Black Men with Type 2 Diabetes—Results of a Three-Month Pilot Randomized Clinical Control Trial

Black men are disproportionately impacted by Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and are more likely to die from diabetes complications than non-Hispanic White men. To address the unique challenges this group faces in diabetes self-management, we implemented a 3-month peer-led and empowerment-based DSME/S intervention in metro-Detroit. Twenty-five Black men ≥55 years of age with self-reported T2D were recruited and randomized to either the intervention group (n=12) − 10 hours of DSME and 9 hours of DSMS, or to an enhanced usual care (EUC) group (n=13) − 10 hours of DSME. Peer leaders (n=3), trained by certified diabetes care and education specialists (CDCES) who used training materials related to Black men with diabetes, led the sessions (mean age: 59.7 years; 100% Black, male, and with at least some college education). Changes in A1C levels, diabetes self-care activities, and diabetes distress levels were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. In the intervention group, the mean A1C at baseline was 7.73%, SD 2.16, and at follow-up, 7.06%, SD 1.39. The EUC group experienced a 0.13% decrease in A1C levels (p = 0.68). Within the intervention group, differences in average diet and blood-glucose testing scores, both measured using the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities (SDSCA) measure, from baseline were statistically significant [(p = 0.03, mean change: 1.32, SD 1.71) and (p < 0.05, mean change: 0.50, SD 0.74), respectively]; EUC group general diet scores were: p = 0.08, mean change: 1.77. Diabetes distress scores among those who attended 1-6 sessions, ≤ 50%, (n=4): p = 0.92, mean change: −0.75, SD 14.06. Of those who attended 7-12 sessions, > 50%, (n=7), the decrease in score was statistically significant: p = 0.003, mean change: −5.71, SD 3.20. Implementing a peer-led DSMS program for Black men was feasible, adopted, and led to positive changes in outcomes. Scaling up the program is warranted to measure sustainability.