A telehealth lifestyle change program for rural Wisconsin, U.S. families at risk for diabetes: feasibility pilot results

Objectives: Family-based programs acknowledge that health behaviors are shaped by familial and environmental contexts. Since family history increases the risk for type-2 diabetes (T2DM), focusing on families may reduce modifiable risks in adults while promoting healthy habits in children. We conducted a 12-week telehealth pilot study with rural Wisconsin families to improve family health climate and reduce diabetes risk. Methods: While caregiver-child dyads with a family history of T2DM were enrolled spring 2023 and 2024, all family members were included in the intervention. Primary outcomes related to feasibility were assessed through semi-structured interviews. Secondary outcomes, collected pre- and post-intervention, included objective measures of physical activity and self-reported global health, physical activity, and social support. Results: = .08). Conclusions: This telehealth, family-focused lifestyle change program was feasible, with promising results in physical activity and social support. Including caregivers and children may positively influence adult health while fostering healthier habits in youth at elevated risk for T2DM.