Shiprock

Researchers are studying the unique natural history of blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity, and beta-cell function in obese adolescents at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. This observational study aims to understand how these factors and their causes change as youth transition through puberty, providing important information that could help design future treatments and prevention strategies for youth-onset type 2 diabetes. The study will carefully examine a large group of young people at risk for type 2 diabetes using detailed biochemical, clinical, and psychosocial assessments. Participants aged 8 to 15 years who meet specific criteria related to obesity, puberty stage, and blood sugar levels will be observed over an average of 2.5 years. No treatments or medications are being tested; instead, the study focuses on tracking natural changes and risk factors over time. Throughout the study, participants will undergo regular evaluations to monitor blood sugar control, beta-cell function, insulin sensitivity, and fatty acid metabolism. These measures will be collected along with clinical and psychosocial data to better understand the progression toward type 2 diabetes. The research team will review these outcomes continuously during the study period, aiming to improve knowledge about diabetes risk in youth and inform future care approaches.

Researchers are evaluating the Family Spirit Strengths (FSS) program to address mental and behavioral health challenges among American Indian and Alaska Native communities, where access to culturally appropriate care is limited. This study aims to test the effectiveness of FSS, a skills-based secondary prevention program that combines evidence-based practices and Indigenous cultural elements to help participants build coping skills, self-efficacy, and stronger community ties. The study uses a randomized controlled design comparing FSS with an evidence-based nutrition education program. Participants assigned to the FSS group will receive between 4 and 16 intervention sessions, averaging 6 to 8 visits, tailored to their mental and behavioral health needs based on regular in-session surveys. The comparison group will receive six bi-weekly nutrition education lessons from the Family Spirit Nurture curriculum, promoting healthy early childhood growth over a period of up to four months. Both programs are delivered through home visiting services. During the study, participants will be assessed at baseline, 3 to 4 months, and 6 to 8 months after starting the program. Researchers will measure changes in mental health, including the number of poor mental health days, substance use, depressive symptoms, and anxiety levels using validated scales. The study is sponsored by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and focuses on culturally tailored interventions for improving mental health outcomes. The total duration of participation varies depending on timing of assessments.