Abstract Body: Background: CVD risk factors are a significant health concern among African immigrants in the US. Zimbabwean immigrants in the US have high rates of hypertension, obesity, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Culturally tailored interventions are effective in reducing CVD risk in African Americans but given the unique cultural differences between African immigrants and other African Americans, r interventions tailored specifically for African immigrants are needed.
Objective: We assessed the feasibility of a culturally targeted lifestyle intervention (LIFESTYLE) for Zimbabwean immigrants in the US. LIFESTYLE is based on CDC dietary and physical activity guidelines for Americans, customized with input from a community advisory board comprised of members from the same community, a nutritionist, and an exercise scientist to include foods and physical activities preferred by the Zimbabwe immigrants.
Methods: A 12-week community-based intervention study was conducted in the New England region. LIFESTYLE utilized a pre & post-intervention design, followed by focus group interviews. Feasibility was assessed by the ability to recruit and retain participants, their engagement in prescribed intervention activities, and their feedback in post-intervention focus group interviews. Day 1 activities included consent, demonstration of recommended food portions, physical activity, educational modules on nutrition and physical activity and completion of research questionnaires. A research coordinator conducted weekly check-ins. Weight, waist-circumference, BP, HbA1C, and physical activity were recorded. Focus group interviews were conducted on the last day of the study.
Results: Of the 35 participants who initially agreed to participate, 25(71%) came. Of these, 23(92%) enrolled, 1 dropped out at week 2 and another at week 11. Overall, 21(91%) completed the study. Findings from post-intervention focus group interviews include: portion control was manageable; check-in reminders were helpful; activities enhanced family time; the food questionnaire was cumbersome; and achieving 150 minutes weekly of physical activity was challenging.
Conclusion: LIFESTYLE intervention for Zimbabwean immigrants was feasible as indicated by high participation and adherence to the intervention. Areas of improvement identified include recruitment as nearly 30% (10/35) who initially agreed to participate were no-shows; decreasing questionnaire burden, and enhancing support for engagement and adherence.