Implementing intervention mapping to tailor the evidence-based PREDIMED intervention for medically underserved prostate cancer patients

Background Prostate cancer is the most common noncutaneous malignancy among men and disproportionately affects those with low socioeconomic status, particularly men from racial and ethnic minority populations. Purpose This study describes the development of a culturally tailored Mediterranean diet intervention for medically underserved Black and Hispanic men with prostate cancer, using the Intervention Mapping Adaptation (IM ADAPT) framework. Methods Conducted at a county safety-net hospital in a large urban area, which serves a population with high medical needs and low socioeconomic status, the project aimed to ensure the intervention was culturally relevant and evidence-based. A collaborative process was used, involving community scientists and patient stakeholders to identify dietary barriers and preferences, while existing interventions were reviewed for cultural fit. Guided by the six steps of the IM ADAPT framework, stakeholder feedback was incorporated throughout the adaptation process. The result was a culturally adapted intervention that included tailored dietary modifications, food provision strategies, and educational materials specifically designed for Black and Hispanic men. Results Completion of the IM ADAPT steps yielded a culturally adapted Mediterranean diet intervention incorporating tailored dietary recommendations, provision of food, and distribution of educational materials designed to meet the specific needs of Black and Hispanic men. Conclusions The IM ADAPT framework enabled the development of a culturally tailored, evidence-based dietary intervention ready for pilot testing among medically underserved men with prostate cancer. This approach may serve as a replicable model for designing interventions for other racial and ethnic minority populations affected by cancer.