AHRQ Innovations Exchange | Culturally Tailored Lifestyle Counseling Tied To Readiness for Change Helps Underserved African-American Women Reduce Dietary Fat Intake

full-text:
AHRQ Innovations Exchange Culturally Tailored Lifestyle Counseling Tied To Readiness for Change Helps Underserved African-American Women Reduce Dietary Fat Intake

Summary

During a 3-year randomized controlled trial at nine community health clinics, low-income African-American women at risk for cardiovascular disease received lifestyle counseling tied to the individual's readiness for change. Using culturally tailored materials and techniques, primary care physicians and nurses engaged patients in motivational counseling and goal-setting assistance during routine visits, while health educators provided additional counseling and support during monthly phone calls. The program reduced dietary fat intake and increased moderate to vigorous physical activity during patients' leisure time; although, the total amount of moderate to vigorous physical activity declined.