Pilot Study of a Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program to Improve Diabetes Management in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a fruit and vegetable prescription F&V Rx program designed to improve diabetes management among low-income Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes. The study aims to test how F&V prescriptions affect participation in diabetes self-management education and support DSMES, fruit and vegetable intake, diet quality, blood sugar control measured by hemoglobin A1c, and the programs acceptability and sustainability. This pilot randomized controlled trial addresses gaps in understanding the role of F&V prescriptions combined with DSMES attendance in diabetes care. The study includes three groups one receiving usual care, one receiving usual care plus four monthly F&V Rx vouchers regardless of DSMES attendance, and one receiving usual care plus F&V Rx vouchers contingent on monthly DSMES group attendance over 16 weeks. Participants in the intervention groups receive vouchers to purchase fruits and vegetables at local stores. The trial tests the impact of these approaches on education uptake and retention as well as health and dietary outcomes. Participants will attend study visits at the beginning and end of the 16-week period for assessments including blood samples for A1c and plasma carotenoids, dietary intake surveys, and diabetes self-management questionnaires. Researchers will monitor voucher use, DSMES attendance, and collect feedback from both participants and care providers to evaluate program implementation. The study is conducted with cultural adaptations and community involvement to support relevance for Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes.

A Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program