Assessment of an Intervention to Prevent Obesity and Diabetes in Latino Farm Workers

Pasos Saludables: A Pilot Intervention to Prevent Obesity and Diabetes Among Latino Farm Workers

This is a study to assess the effectiveness of a culturally appropriate behavioral intervention to reduce obesity levels and ultimately the risk of developing diabetes type II in immigrant Latino farm workers. Workers enrolled in a 2:1 ratio by random allocation into an intervention or control arm of the study. The intervention participants received weekly classes for 10 weeks with education on diabetes, diet and physical activity and practical exercises. Both control and intervention were measured for weight, waist circumference, fasting blood glucose and interviewed before and after the study intervention. The main hypothesis was that intervention, but not control participants, would experience reduction in body measurements after the intervention.

A more detailed description is not desired as noted above.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged 18 -60
• BMI between 20 -38
• Willing to attend 10 weekly education sessions
• Able to speak and understand Spanish
• Have medical insurance

Exclusion Criteria:

• Fasting blood glucose about 126mg/dL unless physician attests fit to participate
• Pregnancy or trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
• Diabetic
• On therapeutic diets
• On medications that affect weight
• If spouse / cohabitant already in the study
• Not a farm worker working for the Reiter Affiliated Companies