Pilot Project, Year 9
Summary of project:
- Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is linked to a higher risk of several cancers, including liver, pancreas, colon/rectum, breast, and bladder cancers, yet cancer risk is rarely addressed in diabetes education.
- Some rural and tribal communities experience high rates of T2D and related health complications, highlighting the need for more education and prevention efforts related to both diabetes and cancer.
- This study evaluates a community-based health education curriculum that teaches diabetes management, cancer prevention, and early detection through locally led health education sessions.
- The project will measure changes in knowledge, health behaviors, and intentions to participate in cancer screening using surveys and follow-up discussions after the program.
Funding: The study is funded by NIMHD/NIH 5U54MD012388
About the investigators
Melinda Smith, PhD
Principal Investigator
Post-Doctoral Scholar, Health Sciences, Center for Community Health and Engaged Research
Email: melinda.smith@nau.edu
Darold Joseph, PhD
Co-Investigator
Associate Professor, Education Specialties
Email: darold.joseph@nau.edu