A Rapid Assessment Procedure to Develop A Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Pilot Health Communications Project Using E- and M-Health Communications in Pohnpei State, Federated States of Micronesia

Abstract

Pohnpei State of the Federated States of Micronesia, located in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean, has limited health research infrastructure; chronic non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are a concern. Over 73% of Pohnpei's population is overweight or obese. E- and m- (mobile) health interventions are becoming more popular in low and middle income countries. A Rapid Assessment Procedure was conducted for formative research to identify the enabling factors and challenges related to health communication and technology in Pohnpei to address NCD prevention. Thirty-seven local stakeholders were identified through snowball sampling for interviews and group discussions about e-health readiness and NCD priorities, held in local settings. Interviews were audio recorded, with field notes taken. Data were iteratively coded using DEDOOSE. Diabetes emerged as the most serious NCD issue because both the health system and local community are having to deal with the complications and consequences. Stakeholders recommended that prevention should be integrated with diabetes treatment. Local health workers' teaching evidence-based diabetes prevention and other health promotion education were through handheld (mobile devices) was identified. The ability to readily access evidence-based health education materials and modules is compatible with community approaches providing tailored, individual and small group education and social support. This approach may serve as a key component of local NCD prevention communications initiatives integral to prevent diabetes and its complications as remote Small Island Nations face burgeoning NCD epidemics and dramatic shifts in diet and activity.