Open AccessLUCHAR: Using Computer Technology to Battle Heart Disease Among Latinos
Author(s) -
Bonnie Leeman-Castillo,
Brenda Beaty,
Silvia Raghunath,
John F. Steiner,
Sheana Bull
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
american journal of public health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.284
H-Index - 264
eISSN - 1541-0048
pISSN - 0090-0036
DOI - 10.2105/ajph.2009.162115
Subject(s) - interactive kiosk , physical activity , gerontology , battle , medicine , chronic disease , behavior change , psychology , family medicine , physical therapy , computer science , world wide web , pathology , archaeology , history
Many promising technology-based programs designed to promote healthy behaviors such as physical activity and healthy eating have not been adapted for use with diverse communities, including Latino communities. We designed a community-based health kiosk program for English- and Spanish-speaking Latinos. Users receive personalized feedback on nutrition, physical activity, and smoking behaviors from computerized role models that guide them in establishing goals in 1 or more of these 3 areas. We found significant improvements in nutrition and physical activity among 245 Latino program users; however, no changes were observed with respect to smoking behaviors. The program shows promise for extending the reach of chronic disease prevention and self-management programs.