Impact of a Community Engagement Program on Treatment Outcomes among People with Noncommunicable Diseases Attending Primary Care Clinics in Two South Indian States.

With epidemiological transition, the prevalence of diabetes and hypertension has significantly increased. Adherence to self-care is crucial to achieve blood glucose and blood pressure (BP) control. The study aimed to understand the impact of a structured community engagement program on blood glucose and BP levels among patients with diabetes and hypertension, respectively. Patients receiving treatment at two primary care clinics at Karnataka and Telangana were enrolled after obtaining consent. Peer groups were created and weekly sessions on self-care conducted for 12 weeks. BP, body mass index, and glycosylated hemoglobin were recorded pre- and postintervention. Out of 284 patients enrolled, 202 underwent baseline investigations, and 142 (70%) completed all sessions. A median 3 mmHg reduction in systolic BP (SBP) was observed among hypertensive patients post intervention. Community-based engagement sessions contributed to reduction in SBP. Similar model can be considered under the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases to improve self-care among noncommunicable disease patients by training health workers.