Healthy environments for prevention of diabetes and other NCDs, Mexico

Objectives

The goal of this project is to improve prevention for diabetes. This will be done by introducing families and patients of diabetes and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to a healthy lifestyle.

Approach

In order to meet the project’s objective, a project steering committee consisting of local municipality and state level professionals within medical services will be established. The steering committee will facilitate the various trainings and monitoring and prepare education and training materials for all activities.

In addition, self-help groups consisting of people with diabetes will be formed to support a habit changing programme, which will include healthy, eating, gardening and awareness activities concerning reduction in sugary beverages and fatty foods.

Furthermore, there is a need to establish youth groups with people selected from secondary schools/pre-university. Group members will be trained in health promotion, gardening, diet and tuition skills and each will be connected with one of the self-help groups/families.

Results at completion

- 86 health centres received capacity building and engaged in improved diabetes care and patient recording.
- PAHO/Mexico MoH CHW NCD/diabetes manual revised and 520 CHWs working out of the selected health centres trained.
- Approximately 8,000 men and 12,000 women with diabetes and related NCDs within the catchment area of the health centres reached by the trained CHWs
- 427 new diabetes cases registered and 6,468 people known to be at risk were reached due to the improved capacity of the trained CHWs.
- The local population across the districts targeted have obtained improved access to diabetes care and prevention services at the 86 health centres reached.
- At least 150,000 people residing in the district communities sensitised in NCD/diabetes prevention and care