GO EASY: Family-based prevention of diabetes through eating habits and physical activity – a feasibility study

Methods: The feasibility test will have an embedded mixed methods one-group study design and follow the framework for developing and conducting complex interventions, existing evidence on family-based diabetes treatment and user opinions.
Participants: Families (n=25) of at least one parent with or at risk of type 2 diabetes and at least one 5-17 years old child, living in the same household and having sedentary lifestyle, will be included after they answer a brief screening questionnaire.
Intervention: The 3-month-long hybrid telehealth/face-to-face intervention, including weekly 1-hour contact with health professionals, will deliver diabetes education and tailored support to implement more physical activity and healthy meals in the family’s everyday life. Moreover, a 3-month-long supervised maintenance phase with monthly professional contacts will be included.
Outcomes: Quantitative (quantifiable) and qualitative research methods will help evaluate feasibility by predefined research progression criteria and the green-amber-red method applied to the feasibility outcomes: recruitment rate, participant retention; program adherence; participants’ self-perceived relevance, timing, and mode of delivery; satisfaction with the treatment; assessment procedure acceptance; adverse events; fidelity of delivery; and contextual appropriateness. Longitudinal outcomes physical activity, dieting habits, daily occupations, occupational balance, health, and quality of life, will measure change from baseline to three and six months. The quantitative results will be comprehended through qualitative data from participant interviews which will nuance the feasibility evaluation.
Analysis: Relevant statistical methods and thematic content analysis will be applied.
Expected results: The intervention will help families achieve sustainable lifestyle changes for better family health and well-being.