Measuring Health-Related Outcomes After a Peer-Led Educational Intervention for African Americans with Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

There are multiple reasons for the disparity in chronic kidney disease (CKD) among African Americans, including higher rates of diabetes, the absence of disease-specific health knowledge, and unhealthy lifestyle behaviors (eating, exercise). This pilot study measured health-related outcomes of a social worker-coordinated and peer-led psychoeducational program, based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). One-group pretest/posttest was used to measure changes in outcome variables, such as CKD-related health knowledge, healthy lifestyle and behaviors, and medication adherence.

Data from 54 African-American patients indicated statistically significant improvement in scores on the Health Knowledge Scale, but no change in healthy lifestyle and behaviors or medication adherence. Social workers should provide cost-effective and clinically proven psychosocial educational treatments for patients with chronic health conditions. This intervention can be replicated with large, diverse groups in collaboration with other medical professionals.