Child & Youth Diabetes Strategy

Diabetes prevention strategy for young Cree families with a history of gestational diabetes

Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre in partnership with the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay

Focus: Post-gestational diabetes, prevention of type 2 diabetes and diabetes-related complications, community-driven

Target population: Cree families with a history of GDM, community health representatives

Reach: Eeyou Istchee (EI), a remote Cree region on James Bay, Quebec

Grant:  $255,000

Project Goal

To create, comprehensively evaluate, and sustain a post-GDM diabetes prevention intervention in EI, a remote Cree region of Quebec. The overarching goal is to reduce the burden of type 2 diabetes and its complications.

Project Overview

Modifying eating and physical activity behaviours reduces type 2 diabetes following a pregnancy with GDM. In Montreal families with a GDM history in mothers, the MoMMii intervention has had success with a couple-based approach to health behaviour change (cooking lessons with physical activity sessions and on-site childcare, supplemented by web apps and contact with a health coach).

In partnership with the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB), the team will adapt the MoMMii strategy to the needs of the remote EI region with input from Cree couples who have experienced GDM in pregnancy. At least two GDM couples will be recruited to the project team. A public health campaign (social media posts, radio interview, town hall meetings) will increase awareness of the impact and implications of GDM. CHRs will be trained by McGill and CBHSSJB project staff to deliver the program, including training in group activities that the CHRs will eventually organize with participants (e.g., cooking, meal planning, budgeting, grocery store tours, walking, use of pedometers, floor exercises) and discussion and demonstration of motivational communication strategies.