Abstract 19765: Barriers to Implementation of a Health Promotion Program in Harlem, New York: the FAMILIA Study, an AHA Strategically Focused Research Network Study

Objective: The Harlem area of New York City has among the highest obesity and diabetes prevalence rates in the city. Nearly half of the children in the Head Start program and about 94% of adults are overweight or obese. We sought to identify factors that may impact the implementation of an integrated family-based health promotion program for children aged 3-5 years and their caregivers in Harlem. Methods: We conducted a qualitative study consisting of 5 focus group discussions (FGD) at two Head Start preschool centers in Harlem, NY. The FGDs included the following participants: parents, teachers, directors, educational directors, nutritionists, cooks, health, mental health and social service professionals. Content analysis of the transcript and notes was performed to identify salient themes. Relationships between and among themes were formulated. Findings: Twenty-five individuals participated in the FGDs. Seven themes emerged as potential barriers to program implementation. Program implications and specific strategies to address them were generated (Table). Conclusions: Formative work prior to program implementation has revealed important, actionable issues that will be addressed during the intervention period. This type of approach may be useful for other health promotion programs in similar settings.