(P24-116-23) Community-Based Participatory Cultural Adaptation of the CDC's PreventT2 Curriculum With Black Caribbean Communities in New York City: A Qualitative Study

Objectives: Cultural adaptation of the CDC’s PreventT2 curriculum materials may increase acceptability in high risk immigrant communities. Despite very high rates of type 2 diabetes (diabetes) (31%) in Black Caribbean communities in New York City (NYC) research is lacking. No cultural adaptation for this community has been evaluated.

Methods: Using a community-based participatory approach and focus groups, this study aimed to gather culturally specific recommendations for adapting the CDC’s PreventT2 curriculum materials for English-speaking Black Caribbean communities in NYC. Thirteen adults of English-speaking Caribbean heritage, living in NYC, and interested in preventing diabetes participated in 7 structured focus groups via Zoom. Participants evaluated photos, text and content related to dietary habits, physical activity, and coping strategies. Oral consent was provided. Focus groups were recorded and transcribed for analysis using Dedoose. 

Results: Four themes emerged: Cultural details for adaptation of curriculum content, coping with challenges, cultural values / health beliefs, contextual barriers to behavior change. Participants said that text, photos, names and case stories should reflect  Caribbean culture, photos of African-descent people, and the realities of life in NYC. In addition, typical Caribbean foods, social norms related to immigrant life, Caribbean cultural traditions, and health beliefs should be reflected. Materials should also include culturally sensitive strategies that address stigmatization related to body size and mental health.

Conclusions: The study findings illustrate how CBPR can effectively be used to collaborate with  and meet the unique needs of Caribbean communities disproportionately affected by chronic health conditions. This study could help improve the cultural relevance of diabetes prevention programs for Black Caribbean communities in New York City and beyond.

Funding Sources: Brooklyn College and University of Applied Sciences Niederrhein