Improving diabetes care for immigrant communities through social networks and primary care.
Better Together: Leveraging primary care and social network resources to create a patient-centered approach to improve diabetes among immigrant communities
This study is looking to help immigrant men with diabetes by using their family and friends to encourage healthier habits, and it will involve group appointments where they can talk with doctors and their loved ones together, focusing on what works best for South Asian and West African communities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10812225 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance diabetes management among immigrant men by utilizing their social networks, such as family and friends, to promote healthy lifestyle changes. The project will implement a shared medical appointment model, where participants can engage with healthcare providers and their social partners simultaneously. By exploring cultural preferences and perceptions, the study seeks to adapt lifestyle interventions to better fit the needs of South Asian and West African immigrant populations. Additionally, it will assess whether positive health behaviors can spread within participants' social circles, potentially benefiting a wider community.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are immigrant men from South Asian and West African backgrounds who have prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the targeted immigrant communities or do not have prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diabetes outcomes and reduced health disparities for immigrant populations.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that leveraging social networks can be effective in promoting health behavior changes, indicating a promising approach in this area.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shah, Megha — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Shah, Megha
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.