Self-Efficacy Is Associated with Health Behaviors Related To Obesity and Cardiovascular Risk Among Hispanic/Latinx and Somali Immigrants To the United States
Self-efficacy, or confidence in performing health behaviors, was examined among 450 Hispanic/Latinx and Somali adults enrolled in the Healthy Immigrant Community project in southeastern Minnesota. Participants completed baseline assessments of confidence for healthy eating and physical activity, along with dietary intake, physical activity, and biometric measures.
Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health Dec 2025
Self-efficacy, or confidence in performing health behaviors, was examined among 450 Hispanic/Latinx and Somali adults enrolled in the Healthy Immigrant Community project in southeastern Minnesota. Participants completed baseline assessments of confidence for healthy eating and physical activity, along with dietary intake, physical activity, and biometric measures. Confidence to eat a healthy diet was strongly associated with healthier behaviors, including eating fruits and vegetables as snacks and reduced consumption of sugary drinks and soda. Similarly, confidence to be physically active correlated with higher levels of reported physical activity across vigorous, moderate, and walking categories. These associations were consistent across both immigrant groups, suggesting that self-efficacy theory applies effectively in these populations.
Findings underscore the importance of integrating strategies to enhance self-efficacy into culturally tailored interventions aimed at reducing obesity and cardiovascular risk. RHCP’s community-based participatory approach facilitated translation and adaptation of validated measures, ensuring cultural and linguistic appropriateness. While results are based on self-reported data and reflect baseline measures only, the strong correlations indicate that confidence plays a critical role in shaping health behaviors. Future research should explore changes in self-efficacy over time and its impact on intervention outcomes to inform sustainable health promotion strategies for immigrant communities.
Keeping the FAITH!: Psychosocial Factors and Healthy Lifestyle Among African-Americans During the COVID-19 Pandemic
During the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, FAITH!—a community-academic partnership with African American churches—surveyed 169 African American adults in Minnesota to understand how pandemic-related stressors affected their ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Over half of respondents reported difficulty staying healthy, which was strongly linked to mental health challenges like stress, depression, anxiety, and anger.
Sage Journals Sept 2025
During the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, FAITH!—a community-academic partnership with African American churches—surveyed 169 African American adults in Minnesota to understand how pandemic-related stressors affected their ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Over half of respondents reported difficulty staying healthy, which was strongly linked to mental health challenges like stress, depression, anxiety, and anger. Financial hardships such as job insecurity, trouble paying rent, and difficulty affording food and utilities were also major contributors. Those facing multiple hardships had significantly higher odds of struggling to maintain healthy habits.
The survey revealed that faith-based practices and church communities played a vital role in helping individuals cope with emotional stress. Respondents leaned on spirituality, physical activity, and virtual support groups to manage their well-being. The findings highlight how social determinants of health—like income, housing, and access to care—intersect with mental health and lifestyle behaviors during public health crises. The study calls for culturally tailored, community-based interventions and policies that address these challenges, especially for marginalized populations disproportionately affected by emergencies.
Current Concepts in the Management of Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global health challenge, especially in low-income countries. It spreads through airborne droplets and can affect any organ, though the lungs are most commonly involved. People with weakened immune systems—such as those with HIV, diabetes, or malnutrition—are at higher risk of developing active TB.
Symposium on Antimicrobial Therapy Apr 2011
Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major global health challenge, especially in low-income countries. It spreads through airborne droplets and can affect any organ, though the lungs are most commonly involved. People with weakened immune systems—such as those with HIV, diabetes, or malnutrition—are at higher risk of developing active TB. Diagnosis involves a combination of tests, including skin or blood tests for latent TB, chest X-rays, sputum analysis, and nucleic acid amplification. Treatment for latent TB typically involves isoniazid for several months, while active TB requires a multi-drug regimen over at least six months, often with directly observed therapy to ensure adherence.
Managing TB also involves public health strategies like contact tracing, isolation of infectious patients, and targeted testing for high-risk groups. Drug-resistant TB, including multidrug-resistant (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR-TB) forms, presents additional challenges and requires specialized treatment. TB in special populations—such as pregnant women, children, and people with HIV—needs tailored approaches. Despite effective treatments, TB remains difficult to eliminate due to poverty, limited healthcare access, and global migration. Continued collaboration between healthcare providers and public health agencies is essential to control and eventually eradicate TB.
The Association Between Perceived Discrimination, Age and Proportion of Lifetime in the United States Among Somali Immigrants: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
RHCP conducted a survey with Somali immigrants in Southeast Minnesota to explore how age and time spent in the U.S. relate to experiences of discrimination. Using the Everyday Discrimination Scale, they found that younger adults (ages 18–40) reported more frequent and chronic discrimination than older adults. Men and those with higher education or mid-range incomes also reported more discrimination.
Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health Jul 2025
RHCP conducted a survey with Somali immigrants in Southeast Minnesota to explore how age and time spent in the U.S. relate to experiences of discrimination. Using the Everyday Discrimination Scale, they found that younger adults (ages 18–40) reported more frequent and chronic discrimination than older adults. Men and those with higher education or mid-range incomes also reported more discrimination. Common experiences included being treated with less respect, receiving poor service, and being perceived as unintelligent. Religion, ancestry, and race were the most frequently cited reasons for these experiences.
The proportion of a person’s life spent in the U.S. did not significantly affect their reported discrimination. Researchers suggest that younger adults may be more aware of discrimination due to education and social exposure, while older adults may experience less by staying within their communities. The study highlights the need for culturally sensitive tools to measure discrimination and calls for policies that address the unique challenges faced by Somali immigrants. It also emphasizes that discrimination is a public health issue, particularly for younger individuals navigating identity and societal expectations.
A Longitudinal Qualitative Analysis Exploring Hispanic/Latino and Somali Immigrant Health Promoters' Perspectives on a Social Network Intervention to Address Cardiovascular Disease Disparities
RHCP worked with Hispanic/Latino and Somali immigrant leaders to implement a social network–based health program called Healthy Immigrant Community (HIC). Health promoters (HPs) led sessions focused on improving diet and physical activity to reduce heart disease risk. Over time, HPs shifted their focus from weight loss to broader goals like overall health and community well-being.
BMC Public Health 2025
RHCP worked with Hispanic/Latino and Somali immigrant leaders to implement a social network–based health program called Healthy Immigrant Community (HIC). Health promoters (HPs) led sessions focused on improving diet and physical activity to reduce heart disease risk. Over time, HPs shifted their focus from weight loss to broader goals like overall health and community well-being. They gained leadership skills, built stronger social ties, and made lasting lifestyle changes. The program’s success was supported by peer motivation, culturally relevant materials, and strong relationships with health coaches.
Despite these gains, HPs faced barriers at multiple levels. Challenges included limited access to affordable gyms, high food costs, racism, and cultural differences in health beliefs. Somali participants highlighted safety concerns and the need for private exercise spaces for women. HPs suggested improvements like ongoing support, better access to resources, and reframing the program to emphasize health rather than weight loss. Their feedback helped shape future plans for HIC and informed broader efforts to reduce health disparities through community-driven, culturally tailored interventions.
Body Size Perceptions Associated with Body Mass Index and Weight Loss Intentions Among Two Immigrant Populations
RHCP surveyed over 1,200 Hispanic and Somali immigrant adults in Southeast Minnesota to better understand how people perceive their own body size and weight, and how those perceptions relate to their intentions to lose weight. While many participants had a body mass index (BMI) in the overweight or obese range, fewer identified themselves as such.
Journal of Radical and Ethnic Health Disparities Jun 2025
RHCP surveyed over 1,200 Hispanic and Somali immigrant adults in Southeast Minnesota to better understand how people perceive their own body size and weight, and how those perceptions relate to their intentions to lose weight. While many participants had a body mass index (BMI) in the overweight or obese range, fewer identified themselves as such. However, when asked to choose images that represented their body size, responses were more closely aligned with actual BMI. This suggests that visual tools may be more accurate than verbal categories for self-assessment. Among Hispanic participants, those who saw themselves as overweight or had a larger gap between their perceived and ideal body size were more likely to say they intended to lose weight.
For Somali participants, the strongest link to weight loss intentions was body image discrepancy—how much heavier they saw themselves compared to their ideal. Actual BMI alone didn’t predict whether someone wanted to lose weight. These findings highlight the importance of understanding cultural and psychological factors in health behavior. They also suggest that using visual scales and exploring body image may be more effective than relying on BMI or verbal self-assessments when designing health interventions for immigrant communities.
Digital Storytelling Interventions to Promote Cancer Screening Among Hispanic/Latino Adults in Primary Care Settings
RHCP developed a digital storytelling project called Stories for Change: La detección temprana puede salvar vidas to encourage cancer screening among Hispanic/Latino adults who were overdue for breast, cervical, or colorectal screenings. Eight storytellers shared personal experiences in short Spanish-language videos, which were shown to 51 participants across three clinical sites.
Journal of Cancer Education Jul 2025
RHCP developed a digital storytelling project called Stories for Change: La detección temprana puede salvar vidas to encourage cancer screening among Hispanic/Latino adults who were overdue for breast, cervical, or colorectal screenings. Eight storytellers shared personal experiences in short Spanish-language videos, which were shown to 51 participants across three clinical sites. After viewing, all participants said they intended to get screened, and over half completed screening within seven months. Most who followed through said the videos strongly influenced their decision. Participants connected deeply with the stories, reporting increased confidence and motivation to act.
Despite high engagement, barriers like time, cost, fear, and lack of provider recommendation prevented some from completing screenings. Those who had previously been screened were more likely to follow through again, suggesting that newcomers may need additional support. Participants recommended adding more educational content and expanding outreach to younger audiences. The intervention was well-received and culturally resonant, showing promise for reducing disparities in cancer screening. Future efforts should include navigation support for follow-up care and address structural barriers to ensure equitable access to diagnostic and treatment services.
Evaluation of a Photovoice Exhibit About Immigrant Health Priorities in Southeast Minnesota
RHCP collaborated with Hispanic/Latino and Somali immigrant leaders in Southeast Minnesota to create a photovoice exhibit that highlighted community health priorities. Participants took photos representing their concerns, discussed themes, and developed policy recommendations. These were shared at a public event and a rotating exhibit in 2024, reaching over 100 attendees including decision-makers, community members, and researchers.
American Journal of Public Health Feb 2025
RHCP collaborated with Hispanic/Latino and Somali immigrant leaders in Southeast Minnesota to create a photovoice exhibit that highlighted community health priorities. Participants took photos representing their concerns, discussed themes, and developed policy recommendations. These were shared at a public event and a rotating exhibit in 2024, reaching over 100 attendees including decision-makers, community members, and researchers. The exhibit aimed to raise awareness, foster dialogue, and promote advocacy by showcasing lived experiences and community assets through visual storytelling.
Survey results showed that nearly all attendees learned something new and felt more connected to immigrant communities. Immigrant leaders valued the opportunity to share their perspectives, while decision-makers appreciated the insights and recommendations. Public respondents expressed empathy and a desire for policy change, with many reporting a sense of “linked fate”—the idea that immigrant well-being affects the broader community. The project demonstrated that photovoice can be a powerful tool for education, connection, and advocacy, though future efforts are needed to assess long-term impact and support sustained civic engagement.
Exploring Factors Impacting Hispanic/Latinx Individuals' Response to a Type 2 Diabetes Digital Storytelling Intervention
RHCP developed a culturally tailored digital storytelling intervention called Stories for Change (S4C) to support Hispanic/Latinx adults with type 2 diabetes. The intervention featured short, Spanish-language videos created by individuals with lived experience managing diabetes. These stories aimed to inspire viewers to adopt healthier behaviors.
PLOS One Jun 2025
RHCP developed a culturally tailored digital storytelling intervention called Stories for Change (S4C) to support Hispanic/Latinx adults with type 2 diabetes. The intervention featured short, Spanish-language videos created by individuals with lived experience managing diabetes. These stories aimed to inspire viewers to adopt healthier behaviors. In a randomized trial involving 227 participants, researchers found that those who had been diagnosed with diabetes for less than five years or who showed increased confidence in managing their condition were more likely to experience a meaningful drop in blood sugar levels after three months.
The analysis revealed that self-efficacy—confidence in one’s ability to manage diabetes—played a key role in how participants responded to the intervention. Surprisingly, factors like education level and emotional connection to the stories did not significantly influence outcomes. These findings suggest that S4C may be especially effective for newly diagnosed individuals and those with lower initial self-efficacy. Because the intervention is low-cost, portable, and easy to integrate into existing care, it holds promise for reducing health disparities in diabetes management among Hispanic/Latinx communities. Future efforts could focus on adapting the approach for those with longer disease duration and exploring ways to boost self-efficacy.
Digital Storytelling Intervention for Hemoglobin A1c Control Among Hispanic Adults With Type 2 Diabetes A Randomized Clinical Trial
A digital storytelling video created by RHCP was tested to help Hispanic adults with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes improve their health. The video featured four personal stories in Spanish that focused on key diabetes self-care behaviors: healthy eating, physical activity, medication use, and blood sugar monitoring. Participants who watched the video reported feeling more confident and motivated to manage their diabetes.
JAMA Network Aug 2024
A digital storytelling video created by RHCP was tested to help Hispanic adults with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes improve their health. The video featured four personal stories in Spanish that focused on key diabetes self-care behaviors: healthy eating, physical activity, medication use, and blood sugar monitoring. Participants who watched the video reported feeling more confident and motivated to manage their diabetes. Compared to those who received printed materials, the video group showed a modest improvement in blood sugar levels after three months, especially when adjusting for factors like age and income.
The intervention was well-received, with nearly all participants saying it captured their attention and inspired behavior change. While the video didn’t lead to significant changes in other health measures like blood pressure or cholesterol, its strong emotional impact and cultural relevance suggest it could be a useful tool in diabetes care. Because it’s short, easy to distribute, and highly engaging, the video could be integrated into clinics or community programs and paired with longer-term support strategies to help improve outcomes for Hispanic patients with diabetes.
Negative Mood is Associated with Sociobehavioral Factors Contributing to Cardiovascular Risk in an Immigrant Population
Among Hispanic/Latino and Somali immigrants in southeast Minnesota, those who reported feeling down or in a negative mood were more likely to face challenges with healthy eating, physical activity, and feeling connected to their communities. These individuals tended to eat fewer fruits and vegetables, drink more sugary beverages, and had lower confidence in their ability to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
BMC Public Health Jul 2024
Among Hispanic/Latino and Somali immigrants in southeast Minnesota, those who reported feeling down or in a negative mood were more likely to face challenges with healthy eating, physical activity, and feeling connected to their communities. These individuals tended to eat fewer fruits and vegetables, drink more sugary beverages, and had lower confidence in their ability to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. They also received less encouragement from family and friends to engage in healthy behaviors and were less likely to access community resources that support nutrition and physical activity.
The RHCP-led weight loss program, which uses social networks to promote healthier lifestyles, found that mood plays a key role in shaping health behaviors. Participants with a negative mood were more likely to feel isolated and less supported, which may contribute to higher cardiovascular risk. These findings suggest that addressing emotional well-being and building self-confidence could strengthen health interventions in immigrant communities. Incorporating strategies that boost mood and social support may help improve outcomes and reduce health disparities.
Healthy Immigrant Community Study Protocol: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Social Network Intervention for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Among Hispanic and Somali Adults
The Healthy Immigrant Community (HIC) project is a community-driven health initiative developed by RHCP to reduce cardiovascular risks among Hispanic and Somali adults in Minnesota. The program uses a social network approach, where trained health promoters from each community lead group sessions focused on improving diet, physical activity, and overall wellness.
Contemporary Clinical Field Trials Feb 2024
The Healthy Immigrant Community (HIC) project is a community-driven health initiative developed by RHCP to reduce cardiovascular risks among Hispanic and Somali adults in Minnesota. The program uses a social network approach, where trained health promoters from each community lead group sessions focused on improving diet, physical activity, and overall wellness. These sessions include goal setting, food and activity tracking, and culturally tailored education. Participants are recruited through trusted social connections, and the intervention is delivered in two phases: an initial six-month program followed by a six-month maintenance phase. The study uses a stepped wedge randomized design to compare outcomes like BMI, blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels across time.
The project builds on years of collaboration and research within immigrant communities, recognizing that social ties and cultural relevance are key to promoting lasting health changes. Early results show strong engagement, with 475 participants enrolled and a majority classified as obese at baseline. The intervention is designed to be flexible, scalable, and sustainable, leveraging peer support and community resources. While challenges like treatment fidelity and indirect influence on control groups exist, the approach offers a promising model for addressing health disparities through culturally grounded, community-led strategies.
Development of a Digital Storytelling Intervention to Increase Breast, Cervical, and Colorectal Cancer Screening in the Hispanic/Latino Community: a Qualitative Evaluation
To help improve cancer screening rates among Hispanic/Latino communities in Minnesota, RHCP partnered with StoryCenter to create a digital storytelling workshop called Stories for Change. Eight participants—cancer survivors, co-survivors, and recently screened individuals—shared personal stories about breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer.
Journal of Cancer Education Dec 2023
To help improve cancer screening rates among Hispanic/Latino communities in Minnesota, RHCP partnered with StoryCenter to create a digital storytelling workshop called Stories for Change. Eight participants—cancer survivors, co-survivors, and recently screened individuals—shared personal stories about breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer. These stories were crafted into short videos using voice narration and images. The storytellers hoped their experiences would resonate with viewers and encourage them to get screened. Themes included family responsibility, overcoming hardship, and cultural values like faith and community support. The workshop was described as empowering, emotional, and a way to give back to the community.
Participants appreciated the supportive environment, learned new skills, and felt their stories could inspire others. However, they also identified areas for improvement, such as clearer pre-workshop communication, more technical support, and faster sharing of the final videos. Some storytellers lacked access to technology to view their own stories, highlighting the need for better planning around digital access. Overall, the project demonstrated that digital storytelling can be a powerful tool for health promotion, especially when it centers the voices of those most affected. Future research will explore whether these stories lead to actual behavior change in cancer screening.
Addressing COVID-19 Inequities Using Bidirectional Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication and Vaccine Clinic Interventions: A Descriptive Study
To address COVID-19 disparities among immigrant and refugee communities in Southeast Minnesota, RHCP developed a two-part intervention: a bidirectional communication strategy and community-based vaccine clinics. Trusted community members, called Communication Leaders, shared culturally adapted health messages through social media and gathered feedback from their networks.
BMC Public Health Aug 2023
To address COVID-19 disparities among immigrant and refugee communities in Southeast Minnesota, RHCP developed a two-part intervention: a bidirectional communication strategy and community-based vaccine clinics. Trusted community members, called Communication Leaders, shared culturally adapted health messages through social media and gathered feedback from their networks. These messages were created using a structured process that included input from local health departments and translation into Somali and Spanish. The feedback loop allowed RHCP to relay community concerns to decision-makers, helping shape more inclusive public health policies. Surveys showed that participants found the messaging helpful and felt more motivated to get vaccinated.
In addition to communication efforts, RHCP organized vaccine clinics in familiar community spaces like schools and nonprofit centers. These clinics were designed to be accessible, with flexible scheduling, language support, and simple registration. Over 1,100 vaccines were administered, mostly to Hispanic and immigrant individuals. The initiative demonstrated that community-led approaches can effectively increase vaccine uptake and address health inequities. RHCP’s work highlights the importance of engaging communities as equal partners in public health efforts, especially during crises. Their model offers a blueprint for future health interventions that prioritize trust, cultural relevance, and shared decision-making.
Adaptation of a Bidirectional Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication Framework by Community-Engaged Research Partnerships in Rural Mississippi During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A community-academic partnership adapted a successful COVID-19 communication model originally developed by RHCP in Minnesota to support rural African American communities in Mississippi. The intervention focused on building trust and delivering culturally relevant health messages through local Communication Leaders—trusted individuals with strong social ties.
Journal of Clinical and Translational Sciences
A community-academic partnership adapted a successful COVID-19 communication model originally developed by RHCP in Minnesota to support rural African American communities in Mississippi. The intervention focused on building trust and delivering culturally relevant health messages through local Communication Leaders—trusted individuals with strong social ties. These leaders shared information via platforms like Facebook, phone calls, and church services, reaching over 8,400 people in three counties. Listening sessions helped shape the messaging, ensuring it addressed local concerns and misinformation. The approach emphasized two-way communication, allowing community members to ask questions and influence public health decisions.
The adapted model was found to be feasible, effective, and scalable, with strong community support and relatively low startup costs. However, sustainability remains a concern due to limited institutional backing. The intervention demonstrated how engaging communities directly - especially those historically marginalized, can improve public health messaging and policy responsiveness. By centering community voices and tailoring strategies to local contexts, the project offers a blueprint for future pandemic preparedness and health equity efforts.
Rochester Healthy Community Partnership: Then and now
RHCP began in 2004 as a collaboration between Mayo Clinic and an adult education center in Rochester, Minnesota, aiming to address health concerns among immigrant and refugee communities. What started as a response to tuberculosis stigma and low screening rates evolved into a long-term partnership grounded in community-based participatory research (CBPR).
Frontiers in Public Health Jan 2023
RHCP began in 2004 as a collaboration between Mayo Clinic and an adult education center in Rochester, Minnesota, aiming to address health concerns among immigrant and refugee communities. What started as a response to tuberculosis stigma and low screening rates evolved into a long-term partnership grounded in community-based participatory research (CBPR). Over 18 years, RHCP has co-created culturally tailored interventions for issues like diabetes, heart disease, cancer screening, and COVID-19 communication. The partnership emphasizes shared decision-making, capacity building, and community leadership, with academic and community partners jointly conducting research and sharing results.
Sustaining RHCP has required navigating challenges like project-based funding, limited infrastructure among community organizations, and the need for ongoing training. Despite these hurdles, RHCP has built trust through consistent engagement, reflection, and shared values. It has also served as a learning platform for hundreds of students and community members. The partnership’s success lies in its ability to adapt to changing societal contexts, maintain strong relational and structural dynamics, and center community voice in health equity efforts. RHCP’s experience offers valuable lessons for building and sustaining meaningful, long-term community-academic collaborations.
Stories for Change Protocol: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Digital Storytelling Workshop Intervention for Hispanic/Latino with Type 2 Diabetes
To address the high rates of type 2 diabetes (T2D) among Hispanic/Latino adults, RHCP and its partners developed a culturally tailored digital storytelling intervention called Stories for Change (S4C). This project used a randomized controlled trial to test whether personal stories shared through video could improve diabetes self-management.
Contemporary Clinical Trials Jan 2023
To address the high rates of type 2 diabetes (T2D) among Hispanic/Latino adults, RHCP and its partners developed a culturally tailored digital storytelling intervention called Stories for Change (S4C). This project used a randomized controlled trial to test whether personal stories shared through video could improve diabetes self-management. Participants were recruited from clinics in Minnesota and Arizona and randomly assigned to either view the 12-minute video or receive usual care. The video featured four storytellers discussing their experiences with diet, exercise, medication, and glucose monitoring. To reinforce the message, intervention participants received monthly text prompts and were encouraged to share the video with family and friends.
The trial enrolled 451 participants, most of whom were women with an average age of 53 and HbA1c levels above 9%. Both groups received diabetes education materials, but only the intervention group viewed the video and engaged in follow-up activities. Early findings showed that participants connected with the storytellers and felt motivated to improve their health behaviors. The study measured outcomes like HbA1c levels, self-efficacy, social support, and healthcare utilization. While the full results are pending, the protocol offers a promising model for using storytelling to promote health equity and improve chronic disease management in underserved communities.
The Use of Digital Stories As a Health Promotion Intervention: A Scoping Review
Digital storytelling (DST) is a creative method used to promote health by sharing personal experiences through short videos. These stories are crafted by individuals affected by health issues and are often used to raise awareness, spark conversations, and encourage behavior change among viewers. A review of ten studies using DST found that these interventions addressed a wide range of health concerns—from diabetes and cancer to HIV and food insecurity—and were implemented across diverse communities and settings.
BMC Public Health 2022
Digital storytelling (DST) is a creative method used to promote health by sharing personal experiences through short videos. These stories are crafted by individuals affected by health issues and are often used to raise awareness, spark conversations, and encourage behavior change among viewers. A review of ten studies using DST found that these interventions addressed a wide range of health concerns—from diabetes and cancer to HIV and food insecurity—and were implemented across diverse communities and settings. Viewers found the stories engaging, culturally respectful, and motivational, with some studies showing improvements in health knowledge, attitudes, and intentions to change behavior.
Despite promising results, most studies focused on individual-level outcomes like increased health literacy or intentions to change behavior, rather than measuring actual behavior change. Few studies addressed broader community or societal factors, and none incorporated all dimensions of the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) framework. The review suggests that DST has untapped potential to promote health equity across multiple levels and domains. Future efforts should include more rigorous study designs, broader health determinants, and post-viewing discussions to deepen impact—especially when led by or in collaboration with Indigenous communities, whose approaches to health and storytelling offer valuable insights.
The Recruitment to Dissemination Continuum in Community-Based Participatory Research
RHCP explored how recruitment and dissemination in community-based participatory research (CBPR) can work together to build trust and strengthen long-term partnerships. Through focus groups with Hispanic and Somali community members and academic partners, they found that trust, relationship-building, and shared decision-making were key to successful recruitment for a social network survey.
Progress in Community Health Partnerships Summer 2022
RHCP explored how recruitment and dissemination in community-based participatory research (CBPR) can work together to build trust and strengthen long-term partnerships. Through focus groups with Hispanic and Somali community members and academic partners, they found that trust, relationship-building, and shared decision-making were key to successful recruitment for a social network survey. Community partners led recruitment efforts using culturally tailored strategies, such as leveraging personal networks and adapting outreach to fit community norms. These efforts were especially important given the political climate and mistrust of institutions at the time.
The dissemination of survey results through a multilingual community event helped reinforce trust and encouraged future participation in research. Attendees felt ownership of the data and saw the findings as a call to action for improving community health. The event also expanded RHCP’s network by engaging new leaders and strengthening connections between diverse communities. This cycle—from recruitment to dissemination and back—demonstrated how CBPR can sustain engagement and build capacity over time. RHCP’s experience shows that when communities are involved in every step of the research process, it leads to more meaningful outcomes and greater willingness to participate in future studies.
Experiences of Hispanic Safety Net Clinic Patients With Diabetes During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes faced major challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including financial strain, reduced access to medical care, and increased stress. Many participants lost jobs or insurance, struggled to afford food and medications, and experienced anxiety about attending clinic visits.
The Science of Diabetes Self-Management and Care 2022
Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes faced major challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including financial strain, reduced access to medical care, and increased stress. Many participants lost jobs or insurance, struggled to afford food and medications, and experienced anxiety about attending clinic visits. Despite these hardships, most maintained their diabetes self-care routines. While physical activity and healthy eating declined for some, overall diabetes management behaviors remained stable. Participants reported low levels of COVID-related anxiety, even though many had family members who were infected.
Measures of diabetes self-efficacy and quality of life improved during the pandemic. People felt more confident in managing their condition and reported better emotional and physical well-being. However, outpatient visits for diabetes care decreased, especially with primary care and behavioral health providers. The study highlights the resilience of Hispanic patients who continued to prioritize their health despite systemic barriers. It also underscores the need for culturally responsive support systems that address both medical and social needs during public health crises.