Community participatory groups to prevent and control Type II diabetes in rural Peshawar and Swabi
Engagement of coMmunity Through Participatory Learning and Action for cOntrol and preVEntion of Type II Diabetes and Its Risk Factors [EMPOWER-D]: Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
This project will try a community group-based Participatory Learning and Action program to help prevent and control Type II diabetes among adults living in rural Peshawar and Swabi, Pakistan.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 12744 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Khyber Medical University Peshawar Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Peshawar, KPK) |
| Trial ID | NCT06561126 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The trial adapts a Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) approach—using community groups that follow cycles of problem identification, collaborative planning, action, and participatory evaluation—to address Type II diabetes and intermediate hyperglycemia. It will be delivered in rural clusters in Peshawar and Swabi and tailored to local needs, using methods such as photo-voice, group discussion, and role-play. A cluster randomized controlled design will compare PLA intervention clusters to control clusters to measure impact on diabetes prevention and control outcomes. Adults aged 20 and over across the glycemic spectrum (normoglycemia, pre-diabetes, and diabetes) will be invited to participate and attend regular local group meetings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 20 years and older who live in the rural areas of Peshawar or Swabi, are willing to consent, and can attend scheduled community group meetings are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People who cannot attend or participate in regular group activities, have severe health conditions that prevent active involvement, or require intensive medical management rather than community support may not benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could reduce new diabetes cases and improve self-care and prevention behaviors by empowering local communities to adopt healthier practices.
How similar studies have performed: PLA approaches have demonstrated effectiveness for maternal and neonatal health in South Asia and informed diabetes-focused community programs such as D-Magic Bangladesh, providing precedent though community PLA for diabetes control remains less widely validated.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals aged 20 years and above. * Participants residing in the rural areas of Peshawar and Swabi, Pakistan. * Individuals willing to participate in the study and provide consent. * Both individuals with normoglycemia, intermediate hyperglycemia, and diabetes are encouraged to participate. * Participants who can attend the scheduled meetings and interventions as per the study protocol. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals below the age of 20 years. * Individuals unwilling to provide consent for participation. * Participants with severe health conditions that may hinder their active involvement in the study. * Individuals with a history of non-compliance with medical interventions or research protocols
Where this trial is running
Peshawar, KPK
- Khyber Medical University Peshawar — Peshawar, Kpk, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Prof. Dr Zia Ul Haq, MBBS,MPH,PhD — Khyber Medical Univeristy Peshawar
- Study coordinator: Prof. Dr Zia Ul Haq, MBBS,MPH,PhD
- Email: drzia@kmu.edu.pk
- Phone: +92 333 9258763
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.