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Date of Graduation
5-7-2020
Semester of Graduation
Spring
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Department of Health Professions
Second Advisor
Laura Dengo
Third Advisor
Sarah Carson Sackett
Abstract
According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (2019), one out of three US adults has prediabetes and healthful eating and physical activity can help to prevent or delay the onset of Type 2 diabetes. This study examines physical activity and healthful eating behavior following a 6-week Market to Table intervention that includes an experiential workshop series among participants who have prediabetes or are at risk for prediabetes. Current participants or graduates of the Sentara RMH Medical Center Diabetes Prevention Program and James Madison University faculty or staff who had been diagnosed with prediabetes or are at risk were included in the intervention. The study was administered as a collaboration among Sentara RMH, James Madison University Dietetics Program, and the Harrisonburg Farmers Market. Weekly workshops were designed using behavior change theory and assessed vegetable preparation and consumption, as well as physical activity. It was anticipated that healthful eating behaviors related to physical activity and vegetable intake would improve and be sustained following the six-week nutrition and physical activity intervention. Surveys reported herein include the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) Short Form, Physical Activity Stages of Change Questionnaire, Physical Activity Exercise Confidence Survey, Food Attitudes and Behaviors Survey, and Food Purchasing Practices. Data were collected at baseline, 6 weeks and follow-up at 12 weeks. Retention of 75% resulted in 9 non-Hispanic, White participants (8 females, 1 male) who were an average age of 56.5 (24-69) years. The number of minutes of moderate intensity physical activity per week and minutes spent walking per week both increased from baseline to follow-up, however there was no significant change in self-efficacy or progression through the stages of change. The overall number of vegetables liked and self-efficacy of vegetable preparation both increased from pre- to follow-up assessments. In conclusion, community partnerships to provide programs for individuals with or at-risk for prediabetes may support improved physical activity and healthful eating practices. Health educators may use a similar model to reach other communities in need of programs to address prediabetes.
