Using Turtle Island Tales to support family health in American Indian communities

Delivery of Turtle Island Tales to Promote Family Wellness

NIH-funded research University of Utah · NIH-11093934

This study is all about helping American Indian families stay healthy by using a fun program called Turtle Island Tales, which teaches kids and their families how to eat better and stay active to prevent obesity and reduce cancer risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Utah NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Salt Lake City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11093934 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to improve health outcomes in American Indian communities by implementing a culturally relevant program called Turtle Island Tales, which focuses on preventing childhood obesity and reducing cancer risk. The project will engage families in home-based activities that promote healthy behaviors and nutrition. By collaborating with local Cooperative Extension Systems, the initiative seeks to reach approximately 4,000 children and their families living in areas of persistent poverty. The approach emphasizes community involvement to ensure the program is effective and sustainable.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are American Indian families with children aged 0-11 years living in rural and frontier areas facing economic challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to American Indian communities or those living outside the targeted geographic areas may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to healthier lifestyles and reduced obesity and cancer risk among American Indian families.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in culturally tailored interventions for obesity prevention in similar communities, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Salt Lake City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.