DEVELOPMENT OF A PRIMARY PREVENTION PROGRAM - INSIGHT GAINED IN THE ZUNI DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM

Diabetes prevention programs are essential in Native American communit ies that are experiencing high rates of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). These programs must be community based and supporte d in order to succeed. The Zuni Diabetes Prevention Program (Program) is a community-based primary prevention project designed to reduce the prevalence of diabetes risk factors among high-school-age youths. The Program strives to enhance knowledge of diabetes and to support incre ased physical activity, increased fruit and vegetable intake, and redu ced soft drink consumption. The primary mechanisms of intervention are diabetes education, a school-based wellness center, supportive social networks, and modification of the food supply available to teens. Pro gram evaluation uses a multiple cross-sectional model; assessment occu rs at three points within the 4-year project. Midproject results indic ate a significant reduction in soft drink consumption and an increase in glucose/insulin ratios, suggesting a decline in the incidence of hy perinsulinemia.