mHealth Intervention for Low-Income Chinese Immigrant Families with Type 2 Diabetes-Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Efficacy

Objectives: To test the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of a mHealth intervention tailored for low-income Chinese immigrant families with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: We conducted a RCT with baseline, 3-, and 6-month measurements. Participating dyads, Chinese immigrants with T2D and their families/friends from NYC were randomized into the intervention group (n=11) or the wait-list control group (n=12). Dyads in the intervention group received 2 videos weekly for 12 weeks. Video topics cover T2D self-management, behavioral techniques, and family-oriented sessions. Study staff helped participants set goals for T2D management, followed their progress biweekly, and addressed any concerns. Feasibility and acceptability were measured respectively by the retention rate and video watch rate, and a satisfaction survey. Patients’ HbA1c, weight, and self-management behaviors were also assessed. Results: Most patients (n = 23; mean age 56±9 years; 52% male) and families/friends (mean age 54±11 years; 52% female) had high school education or less (69% and 69%), annual household income > $25,000 (68%), and limited English proficiency (87% and 86%). The retention rates at both follow-ups were 87% with a mean watch rate of 76.7% (7.0%). Patients and families/friends rated satisfaction as 9.4 and 10 out of 10. Despite no between-group differences, the intervention group had significantly lower HbA1c (p=0.014) and improved self-management (p=0.009), and lost 12 lbs on average in 6 months (p=0.079). Conclusions: A culturally-tailored, family-based mHealth intervention is feasible and acceptable among low-income, limited English-proficient Chinese families with T2D in NYC. Significant changes in HbA1c and self-management in the intervention group indicate this intervention may have potential efficacy. Given the small sample size of this study, a future RCT with adequate power is needed to test efficacy. Disclosure Y.Shi: None. L.Hu: None. N.Islam: None. M.Sevick: None. H.Li: None. C.Wang: None. H.Bao: None. X.Xu: None. R.Lieu: None. Y.Jiang: None. Funding National Institutes of Health (P30DK111022)