Pilot Social Network Weight Loss Intervention With Two Immigrant Populations During the COVID-19 Pandemic
American Journal of Health Promotion 2022
During the COVID-19 pandemic, RHCP piloted a weight loss program for Somali and Hispanic immigrant communities in southeastern Minnesota. Lay health promoters from each community led small social network groups through a 12-week intervention focused on improving diet, physical activity, and overall health. The program began with in-person sessions but quickly shifted to virtual formats due to pandemic restrictions. Despite the change, all 39 participants completed the program, showing strong engagement and trust in their group leaders. Participants reported feeling more motivated and confident in making healthy choices, and they appreciated the culturally tailored support and peer accountability.
The intervention led to measurable health improvements, including weight loss, lower blood pressure, and better cholesterol levels. Participants also increased their intake of fruits and vegetables and doubled their physical activity. Focus groups revealed that shared language, cultural understanding, and strong social connections were key to the program’s success. Challenges included time constraints, cultural expectations around food, and adapting to virtual formats. Still, the program’s flexibility and emphasis on social support helped overcome these barriers. The pilot suggests that using trusted community members to lead health interventions within existing social networks is a promising strategy for promoting wellness in immigrant populations.