The Archdiocese of Agana is partnering with local community health workers, or CHWs, to launch Peau o le Vasa, an outreach program focused on diabetes prevention and overall health and well-being.
A release from the archdiocese said the program would begin in early October, providing participants with a structured health program that includes practical health information, lifestyle coaching, nutritional education and health assessments.
"The goal is to support participants in developing healthy, sustainable habits while contributing to research that may help inform future approaches to diabetes prevention," Tony Diaz, AOA director of communication said. "This is a three-month weight loss program with components of social determinants and health activities delivered by CHWs. The program is aimed at helping participants lose weight and understand specific and relevant social determinants of health challenges."
Eligible participants in the research project will be compensated up to $150. Diaz said the research component is funded through the National Institutes of Health.
"Compensation is intended to help offset minor expenses related to attending sessions and completing required health assessments as specified by the study," Diaz said.
According to the flyer, eligible participants may receive $50 for each completed assessment.
The flyer calls for Pacific Islander or Native Hawaiians living with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease to participate in the program.
To be eligible to participants must be 18 years old or older and have one or more risk factors for Type 2 diabetes.
"Participant information and personal health information will be handled confidentially and in accordance with applicable research requirements. Preliminary health screenings and enrollment activities are expected to begin later this month in preparation for the October launch," Diaz said.
Interested participants can learn more by visiting https://bit.ly/POLV-26 to complete the initial screening form. According to Diaz, eligibility will be determined based on the study requirements.
The application deadline is Sept. 26.