The Impact of a Community Health Worker-Led Lifestyle-Social Determinants Program on Pacific Islander Cardiometabolic Health

Authors: Joseph Keawe'aimoku Kaholokula, Eunjung Lim, Claire Townsend Ing, Anna Fan, Jonathan Baker, Atalina Pasi, Liliane Ulukivaiola, Kāhealani Naeole, Kekoa Lopez-Paguyo, Nia Aitaoto, Sheri-Ann Daniels; Peau o le Vasa

This study tested a culturally tailored lifestyle program led by community health workers to improve diabetes and heart health among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders. Participants who joined the 12-week program lost weight, lowered blood sugar and blood pressure, and improved cholesterol compared to those who did not receive the program. They also reported better eating habits, more physical activity, stronger social support, and improved living conditions. Both participants and health workers found the program practical and culturally meaningful, suggesting it could be expanded to support these communities more widely.