A community health worker-led lifestyle behavior intervention for Latina (Hispanic) women: Feasibility and outcomes of a randomized controlled trial

Authors: Deborah Koniak-Griffin, Mary-Lynn Brecht, Sumiko Takayanagi, Juan Villegas, Marylee Melendrez, Hector Balcazar

This paper evaluates the outcomes and feasibility of a promotora (female community health worker in Latino communities)-led lifestyle behavior intervention for overweight immigrant Latinas in the United States. Using a randomized controlled trial design, a culturally-tailored intervention was implemented in the intervention group and an educational program in the control group. After nine months, women in the intervention group improved significantly in dietary habits, waist circumference, and physical activity in comparison to those in the control group, supporting the feasibility of a promotora-led lifestyle behavior intervention.