Effect of a structured health promotional program using the self-support groups on lifestyle behavior: The .

BACKGROUND

is a one-of-a-kind health promotion intervention that focuses on chronic disease prevention behaviors through peer support and social support network development. The goal of the study was to see how effective was in a city setting in India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From July 2018 to July 2019, we used a mixed-methods intervention research design including many sites. At 0, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, and 12 months, data were collected using participant surveys and in-person interviews. Throughout the research period, participants met in groups at least once a month to self-monitor health indicators, prepare and share a healthy snack, engage in physical activity, create a healthy lifestyle goal, and socialize. Data were analyzed using a paired -test, and inferences were drawn thereof.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant improvements in the majority of the domains of health from pre- to post-program, and 59% of participants reported specific behavioral changes as a result of their participation in the . Peer support, obtaining particular health knowledge, inspiration, motivation, or accountability, the empowering effect of monitoring one's own health indicators, overcoming social isolation, and knowing how to better access resources were all positive health outcomes. The mean knowledge scores for diabetes, hypertension, and nutrition in the first survey were 20.3 ± 2.1 and 5.2 ± 1.9 and in the last survey were 22.6 ± 3.1 ( < 0.05), 5.8 ± 2.4 (<.05), and 44.3 ± 3.9 (<0.001) after the intervention, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The necessity to find novel approaches to chronic illness prevention and management drove the implementation and evaluation of . While more research is needed to confirm the current findings, it looks like could be a useful tool for empowering community members to support one another while promoting healthy lifestyle choices and recognizing early changes.Clinical Trial Registry of India: CTRI/2019/01/017028 (registered on 10/01/2019).