Improving health for Choctaw youth through outdoor activities and cultural values
Wakaya: Rising Up for Choctaw Youth Health
This study is all about helping Choctaw teens aged 14-18 live healthier lives by encouraging them to be more active, eat better, and avoid drugs, using fun nature-based activities that celebrate their culture.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078245 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the health of Choctaw youth by addressing the risks associated with sedentary lifestyles, poor nutrition, and substance use. It employs a nature-based program that incorporates Choctaw cultural values and various behavioral intervention strategies. The study will involve a randomized trial with at-risk youth aged 14-18, assessing changes in physical activity, eating habits, and substance use. By fostering a connection to nature and community, the program aims to create sustainable health improvements among participants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Choctaw youth aged 14-18 who are at risk for obesity and related health issues.
Not a fit: Patients outside the Choctaw community or those not within the specified age range may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes and obesity among Choctaw youth.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that culturally tailored interventions can effectively improve health outcomes in Indigenous populations.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson-Jennings, Michelle D — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Johnson-Jennings, Michelle D
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.