Cooking Classes: A Diabetes Self-Management Support Intervention Enhancing Clinical Values. (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Byrne, Cally; Kurmas, Neal; Burant, Christopher J.; Utech, Anne; Steiber, Alison; Julius, Mary
• Is Part Of: Diabetes educator. Volume 43:Number 6(2017:Dec.)
• Page Start: 600
• Page End: 607
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: Diabetes -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 616.462005
• DOI: 10.1177/0145721717737741
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0145-7217

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between Healthy Teaching Kitchen (HTK) attendance among veterans who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and clinical outcomes as measured by A1C and blood pressure. Methods: This retrospective chart review collected data from veterans with T2DM who participated in the Diabetes Self-Management Support (DSMS) HTK program at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center (LSCVAMC) between February 2013 and May 2016. Data collected included demographic information, frequency of DSMS HTK attendance, 3 A1C values, and 3 blood pressure values. Each subject was assigned to 1 of 4 quartiles based on frequency of DSMS HTK attendance. Results: A1C values of all groups improved over time, regardless of DSMS HTK attendance quartile. However, as total DSMS HTK class attendance increased, there was a significant decrease in the A1C difference score. Conclusions: Participation in a DSMS program that focuses on healthy, economical cooking skills may lead to a significant improvement in A1C regardless of frequency of attendance. However, individuals with more frequent attendance may experience additional improvement in glycemic control.