Abstract 4370180: A community-engaged approach to culturally tailoring a dietary intervention to improve cardiometabolic health among Black adults with obesity in Los Angeles County

Abstract

Background: More than 1 in 3 adults in the United States are obese, which predisposes them to cardiometabolic (CMB) diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. These CMB diseases disproportionately impact non-Hispanic Black (NHB) adults who are more likely than non-Hispanic white (NHW) adults to be obese. However, NHBs are less likely to be adherent to dietary recommendations. Thus, developing tailored innovative strategies to improve the acceptability of lifestyle interventions among NHB adults is essential. Teaching Kitchens (TK) are learning laboratories designed to teach culinary skills and nutrition education, with a focus on improving healthy eating and chronic disease. However, their success depends on their cultural relevance. The objective of this study was to use a community-engaged approach to tailor a Teaching Kitchen (TK) intervention aimed at improving CMB health to NHB adults to enhance participation and acceptability. Research Question: What are the perceived barriers, facilitators, and preferences of a TK among NHB adults with obesity in Los Angeles County (LAC) that could enhance participation in a culturally tailored TK intervention designed to prevent and manage CMB disease? Methods: A community panel (CP) was formed consisting of NHB adults working and living in diverse neighborhoods in LAC in October 2024. One 1-hour semi-structured open discussion session was held with discussion topics including barriers and facilitators to participating in a TK, culturally appropriate recruitment strategies, and preferences to enhance the cultural acceptability of the TK curriculum. Results: The CP (7 NHB; 43% female) identified barriers including financial constraints, limited access to culturally relevant health information, and time scarcity. Facilitators included social support and motivation to improve health. The CP expressed preferences for in-person hands-on cooking experiences, budgeting and shopping education, culturally resonant nutrition education, and supportive group dynamics. They also stressed the need for sustained engagement and community-led delivery to improve uptake and long-term impact. Conclusion: Findings from this study provide actionable insights to guide the cultural adaptation of a TK intervention for NHB adults with obesity in Los Angeles County. This work lays the foundation for improving the acceptability and adherence of lifestyle interventions in a high-risk population that may ultimately lead to improved CMB outcomes.