Barriers and Facilitators of National Diabetes Prevention Program Engagement Among Women of Childbearing Age: A Qualitative Study

Purpose The purpose of this study was to understand barriers and facilitators to engagement in a diabetes prevention program for young women at an urban safety-net health care system. Methods Individual semistructured interviews (N = 29) explored motivations, challenges, and successes regarding participation and suggestions for improvement among women aged 18 to 39 years who enrolled in the National Diabetes Prevention Program in the past 2 years. Participants were classified as nonattendees (n = 10), early-withdrawers (n = 9), or completers (n = 10). Interview transcriptions were analyzed using a grounded hermeneutic editing approach. Results Qualitative analysis revealed 4 main themes (enrollment, attendance, experience, and suggestions) with multiple subthemes. Most women were motivated to enroll for health and family concerns. Early-withdrawers and nonattendees reported confusion about the program’s aim and relevancy, logistical barriers, and lack of connection with fellow participants/coaches. Highly engaged women noted persistent motivation, perceived weight loss, and supportive program relationships. Conclusions Multiple barriers/facilitators for young women appear addressable in future adaptations. Additional research is needed to confirm these findings in other settings and explore implementation and effectiveness of adaptations, with a goal of reducing risks prior to conception.