617-P: Impact of Culturally Sensitive, Mobile Health Based Nutrition Platform in Metabolic Health of African Americans in Southeast Virginia

Mobile health (mHealth) lifestyle interventions for obesity have gained popularity. However, acceptance and efficacy of these in minority populations is less known. The aim of this study was to assess efficacy of a 12-week culturally sensitive mHealth dietary intervention on weight in African Americans (AA) Randomized 12-week pilot study of 43 overweight or obese AA. Subjects were randomized to mHealth intervention (INT) or Standard of Care (SOC). INT included virtual session with dietitian, customized meal plans based on personal preferences, and educational videos. SOC included CDC-guidelines on weight loss. Mixed Methods Repeated Measures analysis was used Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups (age 60 years, weight 204 lbs, 84% females, 67% hypertension, 56% dyslipidemia and 25% diabetes). Mean weight loss was 4.4 lbs for INT & 3.2 lbs for SOC. Weight significantly improved in both groups over time (p=0.0002) but there was no significant difference between the groups. 74% of INT and 68% of SOC lost weight (Figure 1) This study shows potential benefit of tailoring mHealth interventions in a minority population. Results should be interpreted within the context of small sample size and short duration. Qualitative feedback from participants led to improvements in INT and a larger and longer 48-weeks study is underway to better assess the efficacy of INT