Fil-Am participants wanted for UCSF diabetes, heart disease prevention studies

SAN FRANCISCO – The University of California in San Francisco is looking for Filipino Americans 18 years old and older who will participate in two studies on diabetes and heart disease prevention.

Filipino Americans have one of the highest rates of Type 2 Diabetes in the United States. Type 2 diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke and other health problems.

Drs. Melinda Sarmiento-Bender and Yoshimi Fukuoka of UCSF are conducting two key studies focused on preventing diabetes and heart disease among Filipino Americans.  Both studies are six-month lifestyle prevention programs promoting weight loss through physical activity and healthy eating.

The first study, “Filipinos Fit and Trim Weight Loss” are for Filipinos 18 years and older who do not have diabetes.

This weight loss program aims to reduce diabetes risks through physical activity and a healthy diet. Would-be participants in this study should not have disabilities that will limit physical exercise.

This study requires using a mobile health app and pedometer and joining a private Facebook group. Participants should also have a smart phone (iPhone or Android).

There is a six-month commitment to attend seven research office visits, three blood draws and three physical exams. Participants can receive up to $140 for completing all study requirements. If interested call (415) 723-0650 or email: [email protected].

The second study, the Pilipino Americans Go4Health Weight Loss Program, is looking for Filipinos over 18 years old, have Type 2 Diabetes and are taking metformin.

This program aims to decrease heart disease in Filipinos with Type 2 Diabetes through weight loss, exercise and a healthy diet. Participants should not have any disabilities that would limit their ability to exercise.

Participants will be asked to use a mobile health app and pedometer every day, and join a private Facebook group. They should also have a smart phone (iPhone or Android).

As part of a six-month commitment, they will be required to attend one UCSF office visit per month, three physical exams and three blood draws. They can receive up to $50 plus a Fitbit pedometer ($60 value) for completing all study requirements. If interested in joining call (415) 483-0992 or email: [email protected].