Comorbidities And Reducing InEquitieS (CARES): Feasibility of self-monitoring and community health worker support in management of comorbidities among Black breast and prostate cancer patients

Authors: Laura C Schubel, Ana Barac, Michelle Magee, Mihriye Mete, Malinda Peeples, Mansur Shomali, Kristen E Miller, Lauren R Bangerter, Allan Fong, Christopher Gallagher, Jeanne Mandelblatt, Hannah Arem

This study aimed to test if self-monitoring and support from community health workers (CHWs) could help Black individuals with breast or prostate cancer manage other health conditions like hypertension and diabetes. 61 patients participated, using a home device to track blood pressure (BP) and blood glucose (BG) levels over six months. Most participants were able to regularly track their BP and BG. Those who tracked BP regularly showed improved control. However, there were not enough BG readings to see changes. The study showed that this approach is feasible but needs improvements, especially in BG monitoring and support.