Family model diabetes self-management education and support in faith-based organizations in the republic of the Marshall Islands study protocol

Marshallese living in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) experience significant health disparities, with high rates of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In addition to health disparities, the RMI experienced nuclear testing that exposed inhabitants to nuclear fallout, unethical research practices, and contaminated natural food sources. This research uses a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to effectively engage community partners and honor their contributions in all stages of the research. A CBPR approach will leverage culturally situated knowledge and practices of the Marshallese community in the RMI to ensure the success of the research. This manuscript describes the methods used to test the feasibility of delivering a culturally adapted family model of diabetes self-management education and support in faith-based organizations in the RMI. This manuscript describes the protocol for creating working with community partners and implementing a feasibility study in the RMI.