A qualitative inquiry into the community and programmatic dimensions associated with successful implementation of church-based diabetes prevention programs

Purpose: This study explored church members' perspectives regarding implementation of a church-based diabetes prevention program (CBDPP) within African American churches. Methods: Qualitative exploration of themes associated with planning for program implementation and good program outcomes was conducted using a series of four focus groups in churches located in the southeastern United States. Three of these focus groups were conducted with church leaders during the planning phases of program initiation and one focus group involved program participants who had realized the most weight loss and decrease in fasting glucose. Focus group transcripts were subject to content analysis. Participants discussed their views about how to implement a CBDPP within their church and how both the program and broader church community had helped them succeed. Results: Two broad thematic domains emerged with respect to successful CBDPP implementation. The first domain covered church functions and program integration within the church. This was further divided into three thematic clusters relating to church organization, promotion from the pulpit and program visibility, and church service. The second domain addressed the motivational and relationship factors associated with successful program involvement. This was divided into three clusters relating to individuals' motives and beliefs, learning from others, and the support of others. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of a CBDPP depends on the endorsement by the church leadership, congregational awareness of the program objectives, and active community and program support of CBDPP participants. These occur through a variety of formal and informal channels within the church community.