BREAKING: A new study from the University of California, Riverside, reveals that the community health program ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva! is making significant strides in improving diet, fitness, and chronic disease management among rural Latino families in Southern California. The program, which is tailored to low-income, rural Latinas, demonstrates how culturally relevant initiatives can combat health disparities in underserved areas.
Launched in late 2022, this innovative program is based on an intervention developed by City of Hope and delivered by trusted community health workers, known as promotoras. It specifically targets Latino immigrants in the Eastern Coachella Valley, where diabetes rates rank among the highest in the state.
The 10-week virtual program, conducted in Spanish and supplemented with Purépecha translation, combines essential health education, cooking demonstrations, and exercise routines. Weekly sessions focus on crucial topics like diabetes management, nutrition, and cholesterol, using affordable, culturally familiar recipes and group workouts energized by Spanish music.
According to Ann Cheney, a professor of social medicine at UC Riverside and senior author of the study published in BMC Public Health, “Our findings show that programs like ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva! can improve quality of life for underserved rural Latino populations.” Focus groups conducted by Cheney’s team, involving 20 low-income, Spanish-speaking Latina women, reported enhanced understanding of healthy habits, leading to increased consumption of fruits and vegetables and reduced sugary drink intake.
Participants noted significant personal benefits, including weight loss, heightened energy levels, and increased confidence in managing diabetes and obesity. The impact of the program extends beyond individual participants; many have shared their newfound knowledge with family members, promoting healthier lifestyles at home.
The use of WhatsApp and culturally relevant materials has been instrumental in fostering trust and engagement among participants, contributing to the program’s success. “Programs like ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva! show that when communities lead the way, health education becomes more effective and empowering,” stated Jacqueline Moreira, program coordinator for research studies at UC Riverside and first author of the research paper.
Cheney emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive public health programs, especially for communities facing language, economic, and geographic barriers. “By integrating local voices, cultural food traditions, and community networks, ¡Coma, Muévase y Viva! provides a model for how to deliver accessible, relevant, and sustainable health education in underserved communities.”
As health disparities continue to challenge rural Latino populations, the success of this program serves as a vital example of how community-led initiatives can transform lives. The findings underline a crucial path forward for public health strategies aimed at making a meaningful impact on chronic disease management and overall wellness.
Stay tuned for more updates on this transformative community health initiative, and consider sharing this story to raise awareness about the urgent need for culturally tailored health programs in underserved areas.
