Research Projects

Raised blood pressure (hypertension), blood sugar (diabetes mellitus), blood cholesterol (dyslipidemia) are the leading contributing causes of mortality and disability from chronic diseases in developing countries. The treatment gap of hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia remains high even though cost-effective treatment is available. Adherence to lifestyle modifications (physical activity, dietary recommendations and substance use) and pharmacological interventions remains a challenge at the individual level as it requires a behavior change. Social norms theory states that the efforts that target interpersonal influences (such as peers) and environment yield better results than those targeted towards the individual in adopting new behaviors or changes in behaviors. Therefore, peer-led intervention with a community-based approach emerges as a relevant tool for controlling NCDs. Peer-led interventions are not explored in the Indian context for NCDs however found to be successful for alcohol dependence and weight reduction. The studies from developed countries have shown that peer-led interventions effectively develop knowledge related to NCDs, improve skills, and build confidence for managing their conditions. In this study, along with the development and validation of the peer-led intervention model, we are trying to evaluate the effectiveness of peer-led intervention compared to standard care in achieving control of selected NCDs at one year of intervention among people with hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus and/or dyslipidaemia of age 30-60 years. If the peer-led intervention model is found effective can pave the pathway for control of NCDs in the Indian context. It can be integrated into the NPCDCS program of India and strengthen the community-based strategy to control NCDs.

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