what’s new
Northwestern scientists conducted the largest lifestyle intervention trial among South Asians in the U.S. and are conducting a larger-scale study to better represent the diverse and underrepresented group. He emphasized the need to build a strong research base.
why is it important
South Asians in the United States (primarily immigrants with ancestry from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka) are more likely to develop heart disease or suffer from heart disease than East Asians or non-Hispanic whites. There is a high risk of death. Pinpointing the underlying cause has proven difficult, prompting Northwestern Medicine scientists to launch the largest cardiovascular intervention trial in South Asians in the United States.
Research attempts to explain multiple causes of increased cardiovascular disease risk in South Asians, including risk factors such as type 2 diabetes and reduced physical activity, but changes in heart health may be the fastest. Relatively few studies have evaluated the success of attempts to do so. Ethnic groups on the rise in the United States
Results: Same risks, but “promising” health behavior changes
To the surprise of scientists, a targeted, culturally tailored 16-week lifestyle program significantly improved cardiovascular outcomes, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, compared to a control group 12 months after the start of the study. failed to significantly reduce vascular risk factors. However, trial participants self-reported that they were able to eat healthier, move better, and feel more confident in their food and exercise choices, indicating change in the right direction.
“This study is an important step forward in understanding how we can effectively support cardiovascular health management in South Asian communities,” said Dr. said Dr. Namratha Kandula, principal investigator of the study. , published in JAMA Cardiology on September 11th. “While our results demonstrate that our intervention alone is not sufficient to significantly change clinical risk factors, positive changes in health behaviors are promising and pave the way for more sophisticated approaches. Masu.”
Kandura, who is also an internist at Northwestern Medicine, studies how immigration impacts health disparities and is a member of the Center for Diabetes and Metabolism, the Center for Community Health at the Institute of Public Health Medicine, and the Robert J. Kennedy Center for Community Health. It has many affiliations within the university, including research institutes. Dr. Havey, Center for Global Cardiovascular Health, Institute for Global Health;
customized process
This research was tailored to the unique cultural and linguistic needs of the South Asian community. Scientists collaborate with community partners such as community organizations, schools, public health authorities, and health leaders fluent in English, Gujarati, Hindi, and Urdu to conduct group sessions in familiar and accessible settings. carried out.
Between March 2018 and January 2022, 549 participants enrolled in the study, with a control group receiving monthly heart disease prevention information mailed to them and a weekly group class tailored to their goals. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the participating lifestyle intervention groups. 16 weeks.
Opportunity to connect
The study found no significant change in clinical heart disease risk, but the timing of the coronavirus pandemic, the limited duration of the study, and the fact that many of the health issues facing South Asians are environmental rather than individual. Kandura said that could be explained because they are related. ,factor. Kandura also hopes the paper can be used as a model for others looking to include diverse populations in clinical research.
“This trial was a way for people in the South Asian community to connect, build friendships and gain support for health behavior change. It shows that we need to be part of something bigger ‘to stay motivated and supported,’ Kandura said.
