Engagement of coMmunity Through Participatory Learning and Action for cOntrol and preVEntion of Type II Diabetes and Its Risk Factors [EMPOWER-D]

This project aims to adapt, implement, and evaluate Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) based intervention in rural areas of KPK, Pakistan which includes Peshawar and Swabi for TIIDM prevention and control. The pivotal components of this approach include adapting, implementing, and evaluating the PLA-based intervention for the prevention and control of Type II diabetes. These components will be tailored to meet the specific needs of two different settings in Peshawar and Swabi, Pakistan.

Type II Diabetes Mellitus (TIIDM) is considered the fastest-growing health emergency, affecting 537 million adults worldwide. Global projections for the year 2045 suggest that a 12.2% rise in TIIDM is anticipated with an additional 11.4% rise for intermediate hyperglycemia (IHG) \[1\]. Around 80% of people with TIIDM reside in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), exhausting the already burdened healthcare system \[2\]. The intervention "Community groups or mobile phone messaging to prevent and control type 2 diabetes and intermediate hyperglycemia in Bangladesh (DMagic)" has been tested and found effective in the rural context of Bangladesh \[1-3\]. A full trial will be conducted in the rural areas of Peshawar and Swabi, Pakistan.

It is anticipated that with the use of evidence-based approaches, best practices, and meaningful community participation, PLA is expected to enhance social and behavioural determinants of health and subsequent outcomes. This will further pave the way for the control of other NCDs through a similar focused approach.