The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #72224

Heather Diaz, MPH¹, R. Patti Herring, PhD, RN², Susanne B. Montgomery, MS, MPH, PhD³, Ivy Lewis, BA⁴, and Martine Polycarpe, MPH, BA¹. (1) School of Public Health, Department of Health Promotion & Education, Loma Linda University, Nichol Hall Room 1511, Loma Linda, CA 92350, 909-558-8746, heathdiaz@netscape.net, (2) School of Public Health, Health Promotion & Education, Loma Linda University, Nichol Hall, Room 1509, Loma Linda, CA 92350, (3) School of Public Health, Department of Health Promotion and Education, Evaluation Research Unit, Loma Linda University, 10970 Parkland Avenue, Loma Linda, CA 92350, (4) Consultant, Evaluation Research Unit, Loma Linda University, 10970 Parkland Street, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Compared to other racial groups, Latina teens experience a double impact with pregnancy and diabetes. In 2002, youth (15-19) in San Bernardino County, CA had higher live birth rates than the nation and four times the state. Given that Type 2 diabetes is rising among youth, Latina teen’s risk for developing gestational diabetes and Type 2 diabetes is towering. Earlier onset of Type 2 diabetes, gestational or otherwise, contributes to increased morbidity and mortality. Given familial history, high risk of teen pregnancy, increasing obesity rates and lack of exercise, prevention models are crucial. In the summer of 2002, the CDC funded IMPACCT Project provided funding to demonstration projects for teen pregnancy & youth empowerment. These youth reported they were tired of being identified as “at risk” for teen pregnancy. Additionally, formative work indicated that due to familial experiences with diabetes, they were interested in this issue. Latina Youth Diabetes Project used a model that focused on diabetes prevention and indirectly targeted reproductive health and teen pregnancy. We provided teens with knowledge and experiences related to diabetes and linked it with reproductive health, nutrition, exercise, and overall female health. The model encompassed health education training, train-the-trainer model, participation in a national health walk and presentations to other high-risk youth. Results of the mixed methods evaluation indicated that participants experienced an increase in self-efficacy related to eating and weight control, and a deeper understanding that health extends beyond the physical aspects, to also include behaviors, positive lifestyles, and protecting the body holistically.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this session participants will be able to:
• Discuss the significance of models that incorporate pregnancy prevention and type 2 diabetes prevention in youth;
• Discuss the significance of using both knowledge and experiential based interventions to effect behavior and lifestyle change in youth populations;
• Recite at least 3 reasons Latina teens are at an exceptionally high risk for both gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes

Keywords: Teen Pregnancy Prevention, Diabetes

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.