Table 2.

Themes and Implications for Facilitating Lifestyle Behavior Change

Themes	Implications
Threat of Poor Health	Give overview of the percentages of persons by ethnicity affected by the combination of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, hyperlipidemia and the increased risk for CV disease. Emphasize that CV disease is not inevitable and that risk can be changed. Combine this information with evidence that making lifestyle changes, even small ones, are beneficial.
Building Trust with Providers	Provide approaches for talking with providers, such as making list of questions before a visit. Give individuals the opportunity to practice; role play communicating with their provider about medications or other aspects of treatment.
Gaining Social Support	Provide lists of community centers, schools or malls where walking is encouraged. Teach strategies to involve family and friends in activities. Provide tips on how to ask for support from friends and family.
Seeking Culturally Acceptable Alternatives	Have patients provide favorite recipes and give those recipes a “make over” to reduce fat and sodium. Teach label reading and interpretation; practice selection of healthy choices.
Getting on Track and Staying on Track	Provide strategies to reduce negative thoughts. Provide inspirational messages. Teach and practice stress management activities.