Predicting and Intervening in Type 2 Diabetes: Using the Health Action Process Approach

Abstract

Background The purpose of this study was to explore the predictive utility of the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA), and test a brief HAPA based healthy eating intervention, in adults with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Methods Seventy-seven participants took part in a prospective RCT. Outcome measures collected prior to the intervention and four months later included; BMI, blood pressure and blood glucose levels as well as HAPA variables (e.g. risk awareness and planning). Findings HAPA predicted BMI (16.6%) with risk awareness and recovery self-efficacy significant independent predictors. Risk awareness, intentions and self-efficacy were also independent predictors of health outcomes such as diabetes distress, HbA1c, diastolic blood pressure and HDL cholesterol; however, the HAPA did not predict healthy eating. The intervention did not result in changes in diet (p=.84) or HAPA outcome measures compared to the control group. Discussion HAPA may be of some utility in predicting and explaining but not changing behaviour for people with T2D. Other health models may be more effective, and alternative brief-low cost health interventions for those with T2D should be explored.