Family PArtners in Lifestyle Support (PALS): Family-based weight loss for African American adults with type 2 diabetes

Dyad and group-based interventions in physical activity, diet, and weight loss: a systematic review of the evidence

Studies show that interpersonal relations impact behavior change. Yet, a comprehensive review of their efficacy remains unclear. This systematic review examines the efficacy of dyadic and group-based studies that intervened on primary endpoints: diet, PA, and weight loss in adults and their networks. We searched five databases for eligible articles published from 1980 to present. Final inclusion and risk of bias were independently determined and agreed upon by two of the paper's co-authors. Nine dyads and twelve group-based studies were eligible. Of the studies, 36% (4/11) of PA studies, 60% (3/5) of diet studies and 57% (8/14) of studies with weight loss as primary outcomes, reported significant findings. Compared to dyadic interventions, a greater proportion of group-based interventions demonstrated efficacy in PA gain and weight loss as outcomes. Approximately 43% of studies demonstrated low to moderate methodological quality. This systematic review synthesized the evidence of dyadic and group studies that intervened on PA, diet, and weight in adults from the same network. Moderately-high risk of bias and lack of diverse representation restricts inferences around efficacy. High-quality rigorous research is needed to understand the efficacy of dyadic and group-based interventions in addressing these co-occurring endpoints of interest.

Community-Based Culturally Tailored Education Programs for Black Communities with Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Stroke: Systematic Review Findings

BACKGROUND

Community-based culturally tailored education (CBCTE) programs for chronic diseases may reduce health disparities; however, a synthesis across chronic diseases is lacking. We explored (1) the characteristics and outcomes of CBCTE programs and (2) which strategies for culturally appropriate interventions have been used in CBCTE programs, and how they have been implemented.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted by searching three databases to identify empirical full-text literature on CBCTE programs for Black communities with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, or stroke. Studies were screened in duplicate, then data regarding study characteristics, participants, intervention, and outcomes were extracted and analyzed. Cultural tailoring strategies within programs were categorized using Kreuter and colleagues' framework.

RESULTS

Of the 74 studies, most were conducted in the USA (97%) and delivered in one site (53%; e.g., church/home). CBCTE programs targeted diabetes (65%), hypertension (30%), diabetes and hypertension (1%), cardiovascular disease (3%), and stroke (1%). Reported program benefits included physiological, medication-related, physical activity, and literacy. Cultural tailoring strategies included peripheral (targeted Black communities), constituent-involving (e.g., community informed), evidential (e.g., integrated community resources), linguistic (e.g., delivered in community's dialect/accent), and sociocultural (e.g., integrated community members' religious practices).

CONCLUSIONS

CBCTE programs may have beneficial outcomes, but a small sample size limited several. The strategies identified can be adopted by programs seeking to culturally tailor. Future interventions should clearly describe community members' roles/involvement and deliver programs in multiple locations to broaden reach.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42021245772.

What matters for weight loss in behavioral trials in the Latinx community: Learnings from three randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Nearly half of Latinx adults in the US are obese, making effective weight loss interventions crucial to prevent associated chronic conditions.

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with increased session attendance and clinically significant weight loss among Latinx adults.

PARTICIPANTS

Latinx participants from the Vivamos Activos (n = 207), Vida Sana (n = 191), and HOMBRE (n = 424 Latinx men) randomized clinical trials.

DESIGN

Post-hoc analysis of randomized controlled trial data.

INTERVENTION

Culturally-adapted behavioral weight loss interventions based on the Diabetes Prevention Program among Latinx adults over 12 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Demographic, clinical, and psychosocial predictors of session attendance and 5% weight loss at 12-months.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS PERFORMED

Bi-variable associations between baseline characteristics and outcomes were tested with chi-square and t-tests. Those with p-value< 0.15 were then included in stepwise logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Participants (N = 822) were middle age with diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Older age in the Vivamos Activos and Vida Sana trials, and lower acculturation in the HOMBRE trial were significant predictors of increased session attendance. Factors associated with 5% weight loss varied by trials. These included younger age (OR 0.96 95% CI 0.92, 0.99) in Vivamos Activos, higher acculturation (OR 1.88 95% CI 1.05, 3.37) in Vida Sana, and higher education (OR 3.20 95% CI 1.3, 7.03) and greater body image dissatisfaction (OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.04, 1.6), and lower acculturation (0.69 95% CI 0.5, 0.96) in HOMBRE.

CONCLUSIONS

Few and conflicting baseline characteristics were associated with session attendance and clinically significant weight loss, suggesting that alternative approaches to optimizing interventions are needed.

Interventions for family support in cardiometabolic disease: An integrative review

AIM

To evaluate how family support affects cardiometabolic outcomes.

DESIGN

Integrative literature review.

SOURCES

PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE and Scopus were searched for peer-reviewed primary research published between 2016 and 2021.

METHODS

Independent screening of 1661 citations resulted in 17 international publications involving 16 experimental studies selected. Data were analysed using a constant comparison method.

RESULTS

While the interventions varied regarding target, duration, setting and the profession of the interventionists, all studies demonstrated some level of the effectiveness for family involvement and support in the management of cardiometabolic diseases. The studies found improvement in health behaviours and clinical/psychosocial outcomes for the patients and the family members.

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings from this review, we recommend utilizing the following for future family interventions in the management of diabetes and/or hypertension: (1) broader definitions of family and structures; (2) a community participatory/action-research method with embedded healthcare workers; (3) an interdisciplinary approach with attention to goal-setting; (4) multimodal interventions including technology; (5) culturally tailoring interventions for relevance as needed; and (6) clear direction regarding support role and tools.

Dyadic Peer Support to Improve Diet and Physical Activity Among African American Church Members: An Exploratory Study

This study examined how African American church members communicated and cooperated as dyads to attain health goals. Participants completed nine weeks of group classes then worked as dyads for nine weeks. Communication logs and interviews were used to assess: (1) dyad communication and (2) dyad cooperation. Thirty-two dyads from three churches completed the study. Dyads communicated an average of two times per week. Dyads experienced challenges and provided encouragement. Findings indicate African American church members cooperate and communicate as family, friend, and acquaintance dyads to achieve health goals.

Quality improvement strategies for diabetes care: Effects on outcomes for adults living with diabetes

BACKGROUND

There is a large body of evidence evaluating quality improvement (QI) programmes to improve care for adults living with diabetes. These programmes are often comprised of multiple QI strategies, which may be implemented in various combinations. Decision-makers planning to implement or evaluate a new QI programme, or both, need reliable evidence on the relative effectiveness of different QI strategies (individually and in combination) for different patient populations.

OBJECTIVES

To update existing systematic reviews of diabetes QI programmes and apply novel meta-analytical techniques to estimate the effectiveness of QI strategies (individually and in combination) on diabetes quality of care.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL) and trials registers (ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP) to 4 June 2019. We conducted a top-up search to 23 September 2021; we screened these search results and 42 studies meeting our eligibility criteria are available in the awaiting classification section.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised trials that assessed a QI programme to improve care in outpatient settings for people living with diabetes. QI programmes needed to evaluate at least one system- or provider-targeted QI strategy alone or in combination with a patient-targeted strategy. - System-targeted: case management (CM); team changes (TC); electronic patient registry (EPR); facilitated relay of clinical information (FR); continuous quality improvement (CQI). - Provider-targeted: audit and feedback (AF); clinician education (CE); clinician reminders (CR); financial incentives (FI). - Patient-targeted: patient education (PE); promotion of self-management (PSM); patient reminders (PR). Patient-targeted QI strategies needed to occur with a minimum of one provider or system-targeted strategy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We dual-screened search results and abstracted data on study design, study population and QI strategies. We assessed the impact of the programmes on 13 measures of diabetes care, including: glycaemic control (e.g. mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c)); cardiovascular risk factor management (e.g. mean systolic blood pressure (SBP), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), proportion of people living with diabetes that quit smoking or receiving cardiovascular medications); and screening/prevention of microvascular complications (e.g. proportion of patients receiving retinopathy or foot screening); and harms (e.g. proportion of patients experiencing adverse hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia). We modelled the association of each QI strategy with outcomes using a series of hierarchical multivariable meta-regression models in a Bayesian framework. The previous version of this review identified that different strategies were more or less effective depending on baseline levels of outcomes. To explore this further, we extended the main additive model for continuous outcomes (HbA1c, SBP and LDL-C) to include an interaction term between each strategy and average baseline risk for each study (baseline thresholds were based on a data-driven approach; we used the median of all baseline values reported in the trials). Based on model diagnostics, the baseline interaction models for HbA1c, SBP and LDL-C performed better than the main model and are therefore presented as the primary analyses for these outcomes. Based on the model results, we qualitatively ordered each QI strategy within three tiers (Top, Middle, Bottom) based on its magnitude of effect relative to the other QI strategies, where 'Top' indicates that the QI strategy was likely one of the most effective strategies for that specific outcome. Secondary analyses explored the sensitivity of results to choices in model specification and priors.  Additional information about the methods and results of the review are available as Appendices in an online repository. This review will be maintained as a living systematic review; we will update our syntheses as more data become available.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 553 trials (428 patient-randomised and 125 cluster-randomised trials), including a total of 412,161 participants. Of the included studies, 66% involved people living with type 2 diabetes only. Participants were 50% female and the median age of participants was 58.4 years. The mean duration of follow-up was 12.5 months. HbA1c was the commonest reported outcome; screening outcomes and outcomes related to cardiovascular medications, smoking and harms were reported infrequently. The most frequently evaluated QI strategies across all study arms were PE, PSM and CM, while the least frequently evaluated QI strategies included AF, FI and CQI. Our confidence in the evidence is limited due to a lack of information on how studies were conducted.  Four QI strategies (CM, TC, PE, PSM) were consistently identified as 'Top' across the majority of outcomes. All QI strategies were ranked as 'Top' for at least one key outcome. The majority of effects of individual QI strategies were modest, but when used in combination could result in meaningful population-level improvements across the majority of outcomes. The median number of QI strategies in multicomponent QI programmes was three.  Combinations of the three most effective QI strategies were estimated to lead to the below effects:  - PR + PSM + CE: decrease in HbA1c by 0.41% (credibility interval (CrI) -0.61 to -0.22) when baseline HbA1c < 8.3%; - CM + PE + EPR: decrease in HbA1c by 0.62% (CrI -0.84 to -0.39) when baseline HbA1c > 8.3%;  - PE + TC + PSM: reduction in SBP by 2.14 mmHg (CrI -3.80 to -0.52) when baseline SBP < 136 mmHg; - CM + TC + PSM: reduction in SBP by 4.39 mmHg (CrI -6.20 to -2.56) when baseline SBP > 136 mmHg;  - TC + PE + CM: LDL-C lowering of 5.73 mg/dL (CrI -7.93 to -3.61) when baseline LDL < 107 mg/dL; - TC + CM + CR: LDL-C lowering by 5.52 mg/dL (CrI -9.24 to -1.89) when baseline LDL > 107 mg/dL. Assuming a baseline screening rate of 50%, the three most effective QI strategies were estimated to lead to an absolute improvement of 33% in retinopathy screening (PE + PR + TC) and 38% absolute increase in foot screening (PE + TC + Other).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant body of evidence about QI programmes to improve the management of diabetes. Multicomponent QI programmes for diabetes care (comprised of effective QI strategies) may achieve meaningful population-level improvements across the majority of outcomes. For health system decision-makers, the evidence summarised in this review can be used to identify strategies to include in QI programmes. For researchers, this synthesis identifies higher-priority QI strategies to examine in further research regarding how to optimise their evaluation and effects. We will maintain this as a living systematic review.

Motivating Weight Loss Among Black Adults in Relationships: Recommendations for Weight Loss Interventions

BACKGROUND

Black men and women have the highest rates of obesity in the United States. Behavioral weight loss programs incorporating intimate partners may be effective in combating obesity among this population. Yet, current participation in these programs is low. Identifying motivations and triggers to weight loss may provide insight in designing programs to increase participation.

AIM

To determine triggers and motivations for weight loss among Black men and women in committed relationships to inform development of weight loss interventions.

METHOD

Twenty semi-structured interviews, based on an integrated theoretical framework of interdependence and communal coping and the social cognitive theory, were conducted among Black heterosexual couples where one or both individuals intentionally lost ≥5% of their body weight in the last 6 months in a metropolitan region in a southern state. Interviews were transcribed and coded. Themes were identified following multi-rater coding and direct and conventional content analysis. Recommendations were developed from emergent themes.

RESULTS

Among individuals with recent weight loss, personal relevancy and awareness (health awareness and self-awareness) were identified as personal triggers for weight loss initiation. Health concerns and appearance were general motivations among the total sample.

CONCLUSION

Emphasizing the impact of weight on daily functioning and quality of life, and increasing awareness of personal weight status and health consequences, may increase weight loss initiation and participation in weight loss programs among Black men and women in committed relationships. Findings also highlight strategies to improve recruitment and retention and guide intervention development and implementation for this population.

Differences in Weight Loss by Race and Ethnicity in the PRIDE Trial: a Qualitative Analysis of Participant Perspectives

BACKGROUND

Many Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) translation efforts have been less effective for underresourced populations. In the cluster-randomized Prediabetes Informed Decision and Education (PRIDE) trial, which evaluated a shared decision-making (SDM) intervention for diabetes prevention, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black participants lost less weight than non-Hispanic White participants at 12-month follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

To explore perspectives about weight loss from PRIDE participants of different racial and ethnic groups.

PARTICIPANTS

Sample of participants with prediabetes who were randomized to the PRIDE intervention arm (n=24).

APPROACH

We conducted semi-structured interviews within three groups stratified by DPP participation and % weight loss at 12 months: (DPP+/WL+, enrolled in DPP and lost >5% weight; DPP+/WL-, enrolled in DPP and lost <3% weight; DPP-/WL-, did not enroll in DPP and lost <3% weight). Each group was further subdivided on race and ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black (NHB), non-Hispanic White (NHW), Hispanic). Interviews were conducted on Zoom and transcripts were coded and analyzed with Dedoose.

KEY RESULTS

Compared to NHW participants, Hispanic and NHB participants more often endorsed weight loss barriers of limited time to make lifestyle changes due to long work and commute hours, inconvenient DPP class locations and offerings, and limited disposable income for extra weight loss activities. Conversely, facilitators of weight loss regardless of race and ethnicity included retirement or having flexible work schedules; being able to identify convenient DPP classes; having a strong, positive support system; and purchasing supplementary resources to support lifestyle change (e.g., gym memberships, one-on-one activity classes).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that NHB and Hispanic SDM participants report certain barriers to weight loss more commonly than NHW participants, particularly barriers related to limited disposable income and/or time constraints. Our findings suggest that increased lifestyle change support and flexible program delivery options may be needed to ensure equity in DPP reach, participant engagement, and outcomes.

The effect of family-based intervention for adults with diabetes on HbA1c and other health-related outcomes: Systematic review and meta-analysis

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of family-based intervention for adults with diabetes on glycosylated haemoglobin and other health-related outcomes.

BACKGROUND

The impact of family-based intervention on adults with diabetes has been evaluated in various studies, but there is uncertainty about their effect on health-related outcomes for adults with diabetes.

DESIGN

A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

METHODS

A review was performed and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist. Six relevant databases were searched from inception to 5 March 2021. Heterogeneity between studies was quantified by using Higgins' I² test. Sensibility and subgroup analyses were used to explore potential heterogeneity.

RESULTS

The review included 23 studies (3,114 participants). Family-based intervention had a significant effect on improving glycosylated haemoglobin levels, body mass index, blood pressure, fasting glucose, diabetes self-care, diabetes self-efficacy, diabetes distress and positive family support. Non-significant results were obtained for blood lipid, body weight, depression and negative family support. In particular, subgroup analyses indicated that family-based intervention in Asian regions was more effective in improving glycosylated haemoglobin levels than in other areas.

CONCLUSION

Family-based intervention may improve diabetes control, diabetes self-care, psychological well-being and positive family support in adults with diabetes and is especially effective in Asian regions. Given the limitations in current studies, further studies are recommended to combine family theory with family-based intervention, and to examine the effectiveness of such intervention for family members.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This review and meta-analysis provides evidence that family-based intervention can improve positive family support, which has a good effect on diabetes control and psychological well-being in adults with diabetes, and it is especially effective in Asian regions. Findings suggested that unreinforced participation by family members and integrating flexible strategies into family-based intervention may be equally effective.

Barriers and Facilitators to Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Postpartum: A Qualitative Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Postpartum weight retention increases the risk of long-term overweight and obesity and associated comorbidities. Healthy eating and physical activity are important lifestyle behaviors for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. However, these habits may be hard for women to adopt or maintain during the postpartum period.

OBJECTIVE

To identify and describe barriers and facilitators to healthy eating and physical activity among postpartum women in the United States.

METHODS

A qualitative systematic review was conducted. Qualitative studies on women's experiences with weight loss, healthy eating, and physical activity in the postpartum period were identified using a comprehensive search strategy. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Data were qualitatively analyzed using thematic synthesis. Resulting themes were mapped onto components of the Social-Ecological Model for Food and Physical Activity Decisions.

RESULTS

Thirteen qualitative studies were included in the review. Barriers and facilitators to healthy eating and physical activity during the postpartum period included individual factors (emotional and mindless eating, physical limitations, and social support), settings and sectors (food environments, childcare needs, and structured information and support), and social and cultural norms (time constraints, and prioritization of maternal responsibilities).

CONCLUSIONS

Researchers and practitioners should consider how factors within various levels of the Social-Ecological Model may influence healthy eating and physical activity in the postpartum period.

Perceptions of psychosocial and interpersonal factors affecting self-management behaviors among African Americans with diabetes

Background

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Culturally tailored lifestyle interventions for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes in adults of Black African ancestry: a systematic review of tailoring methods and their effectiveness

Objective:

To evaluate the cultural tailoring methods used in type 2 diabetes (T2D), prevention and management interventions for populations of Black African ancestry and to examine their effectiveness on measures of glycaemia.

Design:

Three databases were searched in October 2020; eligible studies used a randomised controlled trial (RCT) design to evaluate the effectiveness of culturally tailored lifestyle interventions compared with usual care for the prevention or management of T2D in adults of Black African ancestry. Cultural tailoring methods were evaluated using the Facilitator-Location-Language-Messaging (FiLLM) framework, whereby facilitator refers to delivery by individuals from the target community, language focuses on using native language or language appropriate to literacy levels, location refers to delivery in meaningful settings, and messaging is tailoring with relevant content and modes of delivery.

Results:

Sixteen RCT were identified, all from USA. The mean age of participants was 55 years, majority female. Six of fifteen RCT reported significant improvements in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) at 6 and 8 months; one, in prediabetes, reported significantly improved fasting plasma glucose. Diabetes knowledge improvement (5/7 studies) was associated with HbA1c improvement. The majority tailored to location (12/16), facilitators (11/16), messaging (9/16) and language (6/16) domains of FiLLM. Those with ethnically matched facilitators and those which tailored to more than one domain showed the greatest HbA1C benefits.

Conclusion:

This evidence supports the effectiveness of culturally tailored lifestyle interventions for T2D management in populations of Black African ancestry, with further RCT needed to evaluate interventions for T2D prevention and for communities outside of the USA.

Perceptions of African American Adults With Type 2 Diabetes on Family Support: Type, Quality, and Recommendations

PURPOSE

The overall purpose of the study was to explore perceptions of family support in diabetes self-management among African American adults with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A qualitative study using focus group methodology and individual interviews was conducted. Thirty-seven African American adults with type 2 diabetes were recruited in the Midwest, United States. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

Themes emerged from the perspectives of the social interdependence theory. Positive family support included emotional support, instrumental support, and specific information or advice on diabetes management strategies. Positivity, family communication, and healthy eating/meal planning were perceived as helpful family behaviors. Negative support was perceived as intentional or unintentional behaviors. Family members' help in decision-making included goal setting with family member(s) and help in making decisions on diet and exercise. Recommendations included exercise and nutritional programs, support groups, family involvement, and materials and resources. Motivations for attending diabetes programs included involving family members, sharing success stories, seeing positive results, encouraging and caring, and providing incentives.

CONCLUSIONS

Intervention programs for African Americans should specifically target challenges in family support, healthy eating, and physical activity at an interpersonal level. Health care providers should assess family roles and family support to facilitate diabetes self-management for African Americans.

Lifestyle medicine for depression: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The treatment effect of multi-component LM interventions on depressive symptoms has not yet been examined.

METHODS

We systematically searched six databases from inception to February 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving any multi-component LM interventions (physical activity, nutritional advice, sleep management, and/or stress management) on depressive symptoms relative to care as usual (CAU), waitlist (WL), no intervention (NI), or attention control (AC) comparisons.

RESULTS

Fifty studies with 8,479 participants were included. Multi-component LM interventions reduced depressive symptoms significantly relative to the CAU (p >.001; d = 0.20) and WL/NI (p > .01; d = 0.22) comparisons at immediate posttreatment. However, no significant difference was found when compared with AC. The intervention effects were maintained in the short-term (1- to 3-month follow-up) relative to the CAU comparison (p > .05; d = 0.25), but not in the medium- and long-term. The moderator analyses examining the effect of multi-component LM interventions compared with CAU suggested that the number of lifestyle factors adopted was a significant moderator. Although disease type was not a significant moderator, there was a tendency that the clinical effect of multi-component LM interventions was stronger (d = 0.45) in those diagnosed with major depression. No publication bias was detected.

LIMITATIONS

Low number of RCTs available in some subgroup analyses prevented from finding meaningful effects. Results may not be extended to major depression, because data on secondary depression were captured.

CONCLUSION

Multi-component LM interventions appeared to be effective in mitigating depressive symptoms; however, the magnitude of the clinical effect was small. Future research is needed to assess more comprehensive and individualized LM interventions which have a greater emphasis on motivational and compliance aspects and focus solely on individuals with depression.

Evidence generated from a realist synthesis of trials on educational weight loss interventions in type 2 diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Obesity and diabetes are major public health problems. Current approaches to weight loss show varying success. Complex community-based interventions work through several interconnected stages. An individual's actions in response to an intervention depend on many known and unknown factors, which vary among individuals.

AIM

To conduct a realist synthesis to identify in which context, for whom, in what circumstances, and how weight loss interventions work in obese or overweight individuals with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A total of 49 trials identified during a systematic review were subsequently analysed using realist methodology. This iterative process involved hypothesis generation about how participants within a particular context respond to an intervention's resources producing the outcomes. We used established behaviour change theory to look for repeating themes. Theory and 'mechanisms' were tested against the literature on what is shown to be effective. Where established theory was lacking, we discussed issues during discussion groups with individuals living with the condition to generate our own programme theories.

RESULTS

Mechanisms that were repeatedly identified included high-frequency contact with those delivering the intervention, social support, education increasing awareness of diabetes-related modifiable risk factors, motivational interviewing and counselling, goal-setting, self-monitoring and feedback and meal replacements. The central theme underlying successful mechanisms was personalising each intervention component to the participants' gender, culture and family setting.

CONCLUSION

This is the first comprehensive realist synthesis in this field. Our findings suggest that, for weight loss interventions to be successful in those with diabetes, they must be personalized to the individual and their specific context.

Revising Diabetes Programming for Black Men and Their Families

Type-2 diabetes has increased 160% for African American males in the United States. This two-part study's purpose was to apply social marketing theory to understand the Type-2 diabetes education needs of men in Iowa. Study One was a preference assessment of Type-2 diabetes education strategies. Four African American men participated in a series of four focus groups and indicated that they were interested in diabetes prevention programming with their families but not in having it labeled as diabetes education. Participating men would rather increase their physical activity as opposed to tracking their food intake. As a follow-up to this study, nine other African American males took part in Study Two, which used cooking demonstrations and recipe taste-testing with the men to examine their relationship to food in the context of managing their Type-2 diabetes. The findings of both studies, which provided insight into these African American men's lifestyle as related to their Type-2 diabetes, could be useful for nursing professionals who have a critical role in navigating cultural, gender, and family norms while developing care plans, offering patient education, and promoting quality of life.

Educational weight loss interventions in obese and overweight adults with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIM

The worldwide prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is increasing, with most individuals with the disease being overweight or obese. Weight loss can reduce disease-related morbidity and mortality and weight losses of 10-15 kg have been shown to reverse type 2 diabetes. This review aimed to determine the effectiveness of community-based educational interventions for weight loss in type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) in obese or overweight adults, aged 18-75 years, with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Primary outcomes were weight and/or BMI. CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched from inception to June 2019. Trials were classified into specified a priori comparisons according to intervention type. A pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) (from baseline to follow-up) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) between trial groups (difference-in-difference) were estimated through random-effects meta-analyses using the inverse variance method. Heterogeneity was quantified using I² and publication bias was explored visually using funnel plots.

RESULTS

Some 7383 records were screened; 228 full-text articles were assessed and 49 RCTs (n = 12 461 participants) were included in this review, with 44 being suitable for inclusion into the meta-analysis. Pooled estimates of education combined with low-calorie, low-carbohydrate meal replacements (SMD = -2.48, 95% CI -3.59, -1.49, I²  = 98%) or diets (SMD = -1.25, 95% CI -2.11, -0.39, I²  = 95%) or low-fat meal replacements (SMD = -1.15, 95%CI -2.05, -1.09, I²  = 85%) appeared most effective.

CONCLUSION

Low-calorie, low-carbohydrate meal replacements or diets combined with education appear the most promising interventions to achieve the largest weight and BMI reductions in people with type 2 diabetes.

Systematic review of salutogenic-oriented lifestyle randomised controlled trials for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

Describe the characteristics (development, intensity, deliverers, setting, strategies) and assess the effect of salutogenic-oriented lifestyle interventions on physical and psychosocial health outcomes in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHOD

PubMed, Scopus and PsycINFO were systematically searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published up to August 2019 that complied with predefined salutogenic criteria: the participant as a whole, the participant's active involvement and the participant's individual learning process. Characteristics of the salutogenic-oriented interventions with and without significant results were compared and qualitatively summarised.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight RCTs were identified. Salutogenic oriented interventions that significantly improved both physical and psychosocial health were characterized by being based on formative research, culturally targeted, and delivered in 10-20 sessions in group settings, whereas salutogenic oriented interventions that neither improved physical or psychosocial health significantly were characterized by being individually tailored and delivered in less than 10 group sessions in individual settings.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review suggests that salutogenic-oriented lifestyle interventions are effective for physical and psychosocial health in the short term. More research is needed to determine how intervention characteristics moderate (long-term) effectiveness.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

The results provide a basis for purposefully developing effective salutogenic interventions for adults with T2DM.

Weight Loss Experiences of African American, Hispanic, and Non-Hispanic White Men and Women with Type 2 Diabetes: The Look AHEAD Trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to characterize weight loss, treatment engagement, and weight control strategies utilized by African American, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic white participants in the Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) Intensive Lifestyle Intervention by racial/ethnic and sex subgroups.

METHODS

Weight losses at 1, 4, and 8 years among 2,361 adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes randomized to intervention (31% minority; 42% men) are reported by subgroup. Multivariable models within subgroups examine relative contributions of treatment engagement variables and self-reported weight control behaviors.

RESULTS

All subgroups averaged weight losses ≥ 5% in year 1 but experienced regain; losses ≥ 5% were sustained at year 8 by non-Hispanic white participants and minority women (but not men). Session attendance was high (≥ 86%) in year 1 and exceeded protocol-specified minimum levels into year 8. Individual session attendance had stronger associations with weight loss among Hispanic and African American participants than non-Hispanic white participants at 4 years (P = 0.04) and 8 years (P = 0.001). Daily self-weighing uptake was considerable in all subgroups and was a prominent factor associated with year 1 weight loss among African American men and women. Greater meal replacement use was strongly associated with poorer 1-year weight losses among African American women.

CONCLUSIONS

Experiences of minority men and women with diabetes in lifestyle interventions fill important gaps in the literature that can inform treatment delivery.

Feasibility and efficacy of a novel technology-based approach to harness social networks for weight loss: the NETworks pilot randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Harnessing social support from existing social ties represents a key weight control practice. This trial evaluated an intervention that provided health-promoting technologies for leveraging the influence of existing social ties.

METHODS

Volunteers (N = 36) with a body mass index between 25 and 55 kg m-2 were randomized to a 16-week, in-person, technology-supported behavioural weight-loss treatment (standard behavioural treatment) or the same programme supplemented by providing self-selected members of participants' social networks with a digital body-weight scale and Fitbit Zip physical activity tracker (ENHANCED).

RESULTS

Average weight losses from baseline to 16 weeks did not significantly differ between groups (standard behavioural treatment, 5.30%, SD =3.93%; ENHANCED, 5.96%, SD = 5.19%, p = 0.63). By the 1-year follow-up, standard behavioural treatment had lost 5.63%, SD = 8.14% of baseline weight versus 4.73%, SD = 9.43% for ENHANCED (p = 0.82). ENHANCED reported self-weighing on more days than did standard behavioural treatment (p = 0.03). Most participants reported high programme satisfaction. Similar improvements were observed in perceived social support for diet and exercise from baseline to 16 weeks in both groups (ps < 0.05) but regressed by 1 year (ps < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Although feasible to implement, this technology-based, social support approach failed to enhance outcomes of a face-to-face, group-based behavioural weight-loss treatment.

Effect of family-oriented diabetes programs on glycemic control: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Efficacy of programs for patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) that have promoted family members to help with patients' self-care activities has been largely inconsistent. This meta-analysis aims to assess the effect of family-oriented diabetes programs for glycemic control (GC).

METHODS

Electronic literature searches were conducted for clinical trials with a parallel design wherein there were two groups according to whether family members were included (intervention group) or not included (control group) and changes in glycohemoglobin A1C (A1C) were assessed as a study outcome. Each effect size (i.e. difference in A1C change between the intervention and control group) was pooled with a random-effects model.

RESULTS

There were 31 eligible trials consisting of 1466 and 1415 patients in the intervention and control groups, respectively. Pooled A1C change [95% confidence interval (CI)] was -0.45% (-0.64% to -0.26%). Limiting analyses to 21 trials targeted at patients with type 1 DM or 9 trials targeted at patients with type 2 DM, the pooled A1C changes (95% CI) were -0.35% (-0.55% to -0.14%) and -0.71% (-1.09% to -0.33%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests that focusing on the family as well as the individual patient in self-management diabetes programs to improve the performance of self-care activities of patients with DM is effective in terms of proper GC.

Perceived Obstacles Faced by Diabetes Patients Attending University of Gondar Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a non-communicable, chronic, and progressive disease that can lead to serious complications and even to premature death. A closer understanding of the DM patients’ specific obstacles will provide a greater clarity of the factors influencing their disease-related quality of life and coping with daily life. The study aimed to evaluate the obstacles of DM patients attending ambulatory clinic of the University of Gondar Hospital (UOGH), Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April 2017 at ambulatory clinic of the UOGH. A validated short version of the diabetic obstacle questionnaire was used. The internal reliability of the questionnaire was checked using Cronbach’s alpha and was found to be 92.5%. To determine any association between each of the nine sections of the questionnaire and age, sex, residence, educational status, and DM type, a binary logistic regression was performed.

Results

The mean age of respondents was 38.69 ± 15.39 years. Compared with patients with type 1 DM, patients with type 2 DM reported poorer relationships with medical professionals (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.191, p-value = 0.027) and less support from families and friends (AOR: 1.913, p-value = 0.049). Patients coming from rural areas (AOR: 2.947, p = 0.002) and having no formal education (AOR: 2.078, p = 0.029) also received less support from families and friends.

Conclusion

DM patients in UOGH reported several obstacles related to patients’ relationship with health professionals, lack of support from their friends, lack of knowledge about DM, and lack of motivation to exercise. Effective efforts should be initiated to improve healthier environment to educate, care and preventive services for people with DM.

Together Eating & Activity Matters (TEAM): results of a pilot randomized-clinical trial of a spousal support weight loss intervention for Black men

Objectives

The objective of this study is to evaluate the feasibility, participation, preliminary efficacy and retention in a couples-based weight loss intervention among Black men.

Design setting participants

Two-arm pilot randomized clinical trial in an academic clinical setting. Forty self-identified Black men and their female cohabitating partners (n = 80) aged 18 to 65 years with body mass index from 25 to 45 kg/m2 were randomized using computer generated tables to allocate treatments.

Intervention

Participants were randomized to a standard behavioural weight loss (Standard) programme or the Standard programme plus partner involvement (Enhanced). Both interventions focused on calorie reduction, physical activity and self-monitoring to facilitate weight loss. Enhanced included couples skills training and couple's communication components.

Main outcome and measures

Changes in weight from baseline to 3 months among men. Partner weight loss (secondary).

Results

Forty Black couples (men mean [SD] age, 47.4[11] years; body mass index, 35.0[6.1]), were recruited. Retention was 100% of the men and 98% of female partners. Attendance at group sessions was 63-73%. Between groups, mean (SD) weight changes among men were -3.4[.04] and -4.7[5.9] kg (p = 0.57) and among women -0.23[4.46] and -2.47[3.62] kg (p = 0.09), in the standard and enhanced groups.

Conclusions

Weight losses from an intervention enhanced by partner involvement and an intervention with no partner involvement were not different. Treatment choice can be based on preference rather than outcome as both treatments are effective in producing clinically significant percent weight loss.Trial registration Clinical Trials NCT02458053.

Reversing the tide - diagnosis and prevention of T2DM in populations of African descent

Populations of African descent are at the forefront of the worldwide epidemic of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The burden of T2DM is amplified by diagnosis after preventable complications of the disease have occurred. Earlier detection would result in a reduction in undiagnosed T2DM, more accurate statistics, more informed resource allocation and better health. An underappreciated factor contributing to undiagnosed T2DM in populations of African descent is that screening tests for hyperglycaemia, specifically, fasting plasma glucose and HbA_1c, perform sub-optimally in these populations. To offset this problem, combining tests or adding glycated albumin (a nonfasting marker of glycaemia), might be the way forward. However, differences in diet, exercise, BMI, environment, gene-environment interactions and the prevalence of sickle cell trait mean that neither diagnostic tests nor interventions will be uniformly effective in individuals of African, Caribbean or African-American descent. Among these three populations of African descent, intensive lifestyle interventions have been reported in only the African-American population, in which they have been found to provide effective primary prevention of T2DM but not secondary prevention. Owing to a lack of health literacy and poor glycaemic control in Africa and the Caribbean, customized lifestyle interventions might achieve both secondary and primary prevention. Overall, diagnosis and prevention of T2DM requires innovative strategies that are sensitive to the diversity that exists within populations of African descent.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of trials of social network interventions in type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

In the care of patients with type 2 diabetes, self-management is emphasised and studied while theory and observations suggest that patients also benefit from social support. We sought to assess the effect of social network interventions on social support, glycaemic control and quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EBM Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PsycINFO and CINAHL through April 2017 for randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of social network interventions in patients with type 2 diabetes. Reviewers working independently and in duplicate assessed eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted data from eligible RCTs. We pooled estimates using inverse variance random effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

We found 19 eligible RCTs enrolling 2319 participants. Social network interventions were commonly based on individual behaviour change rather than social or interpersonal theories of self-management, were educational, and sought to engage social network members for their knowledge and experience. Interventions improved social support (0.74 SD (95% CI 0.32 to 1.15), I2=89%, 8 RCTs) and haemoglobin A1c at 3 months (-0.25 percentage points (95% CI -0.40 to -0.11), I2=12%, 9 RCTs), but not quality of life.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a compelling theoretical base, researchers have only minimally studied the value of interventions targeting patients' social networks on diabetes care. Although the body of evidence to date is limited, and based on individual behaviour change theories, the results are promising. This review challenges the scientific community to design and test theory-based interventions that go beyond self-management approaches to focus on the largely untapped potential of social networks to improve diabetes care.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION

CRD42016036117.

The impact of a social network based intervention on self-management behaviours among patients with type 2 diabetes living in socioeconomically deprived neighbourhoods: a mixed methods approach

AIMS

This paper aims to explore the effect of the social network based intervention Powerful Together with Diabetes on diabetes self-management among socioeconomically deprived patients. This 10-month group intervention targeting patients and significant others aimed to improve self-management by stimulating social support and diminishing social influences that hinder self-management.

METHODS

This intervention was evaluated in a quasi-experimental study using a mixed methods approach. Of 131 socioeconomically deprived patients with suboptimal glycaemic control, 69 were assigned to the intervention group and 62 to the control group (standard diabetes education). 27 qualitative in-depth interviews with the participants and 24 with their group leaders were held to study the subjective impact of the intervention. Further, self-management behaviours (medication adherence, diet and physical activity) were assessed at baseline, 10 and 16 months. Data were analysed using framework analyses and a linear mixture model.

RESULTS

Qualitative data showed that the intervention group had a better understanding of the way self-management influences diabetes. The intervention group showed more complex self-management behaviours, such as planning ahead, seeking adequate food and physical activity alternatives, and consistently taking their diabetes into consideration when making choices. In participants with complete follow-up data, we found a significant increase in physical activity in the intervention group (3.78 vs. 4.83 days) and no changes in medication adherence and diet.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicates that an intensive support group and simultaneously involving significant others might improve diabetes self-management behaviours among socioeconomically deprived patients. More studies are needed to justify further implementation of the intervention. This study is registered in the Dutch Trial Register NTR1886. http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=1886.