Developing a Pacific Family Model approach to co-design a diabetes prevention programme

Pacific families in New Zealand experience high rates of type 2 diabetes and unequal access to health-supporting resources. Pacific communities draw on collectivism and social capital to mobilise social action. This study aimed to develop a Pacific Family Model (PFM) approach to address T2DM-related health inequities. This study involved an established empowerment programme aimed to build community knowledge and skillsets in health promotion strategies, and to co-design a diabetes-prevention programme led by the research team and community participants (n = 39). Measurements were taken at baseline and at six months from baseline, comparing young and old participant groups with T2DM. Mean scores were presented, and T-Test and Wilcoxon statistical tests were used to identify differences between the groups. Older participants demonstrated greater average changes in: weight loss (-6.58 kg), blood pressure (-2.33 mmHg), and BMI (-2.94 kg/m2), compared to the younger participants. The PFM approach successfully tailored a family health-promotion programme by leveraging Pacific values and family strengths, enabling collective learning and modest behaviour change. Participants reported higher health awareness and self-efficacy despite complex living realities. Further research should test scalability. Practically, culturally grounded, co-designed programmes should be paired with context-appropriate supports.