Cardiovascular disease risk among rural residents living with diabetes and prediabetes: A cluster randomized trial

Objective Diabetes is a major health problem that is closely linked with cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death in the United States. The purpose of this analysis was to determine the effect of a culturally relevant diabetes health promotion program on diabetes knowledge and self-reported self-care behaviors. Design A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in 12 rural church settings. Seven churches were randomized to the intervention group and five to the control group. Sample The sample included 146 African American participants diagnosed with diabetes and prediabetes. Intervention The intervention group participants (n = 75) received the diabetes health program, and those in the control group (n = 71) group received a publicly available diabetes health brochure. Measures Data were collected about diabetes knowledge, self-care activities, fatalism, and social support. Results Linear mixed model was the statistical test used to analyze group differences. Compared with the control group, the intervention group showed significant changes from pretest to posttest for diabetes knowledge and behaviors associated with diet and blood glucose testing. Conclusion Health promotion programs implemented by public health nurses among rural groups at increased risk for developing CVD can facilitate understanding about strategies to reduce disease risk.