Family model diabetes self-management education and support in faith-based organizations in the republic of the Marshall Islands study protocol

Pearl A McElfish; Janine Boyers; Rachel S Purvis; Betsy O'Connor; Ayoola Carleton; Williamina Bing; Brett Rowland; Craig Molgaard; Ainrik George; Lydia R Tibon; Dalton Hoose; Sheldon Riklon

doi:10.1016/j.conctc.2021.100710

Family model diabetes self-management education and support in faith-based organizations in the republic of the Marshall Islands study protocol

Contemp Clin Trials Commun. 2021 Jan 11:21:100710. doi: 10.1016/j.conctc.2021.100710. eCollection 2021 Mar.

Authors

Affiliations

¹ College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 1125 N. College Avenue, Fayetteville, AR, 72703, USA.
² Office of Community Health and Research, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, 1125 N. College Avenue, Fayetteville, AR, 7270, USA.
³ College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham Street, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
⁴ Marshall Islands Postal Service Authority, Majuro, 96960, Marshall Islands.
⁵ Kora in Jiban Lorojake Ejmour, PO Box 372, G & L Building Ground Floor, Majuro, 96960, Marshall Islands.

Abstract

Background: Marshallese living in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) experience significant health disparities, with high rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to health disparities, the RMI experienced nuclear testing that exposed inhabitants to nuclear fallout, unethical research practices, and contaminated natural food sources.

Objectives: This research uses a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to effectively engage community partners and honor their contributions in all stages of the research. A CBPR approach will leverage culturally situated knowledge and practices of the Marshallese community in the RMI to ensure the success of the research.

Methods: This manuscript describes the methods used to test the feasibility of delivering a culturally adapted family model of diabetes self-management education and support in faith-based organizations in the RMI.

Conclusions: This manuscript describes the protocol for creating working with community partners and implementing a feasibility study in the RMI.

Keywords: Community-based participatory research; Family model of diabetes self-management education and support; Health disparities; Marshallese; Pacific islanders; Republic of the Marshall Islands; Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Grants and funding

U54 TR001629/TR/NCATS NIH HHS/United States