Project Power

Name: Project Power
Author: American Diabetes Association

American Diabetes Association

CLINICAL GRADE

Studied in clinical trials · Mixed evidence

For:Clinicians & Healthcare ProfessionalsPatients & Caregivers

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App Summary

Project Power, developed by the American Diabetes Association, is a program designed to help adults and youth identify and lower their risk for type 2 diabetes or manage the disease through education and lifestyle modification. A randomized controlled trial (N=146) found that participants in a diabetes health program, compared to a control group, showed significant improvements in diabetes knowledge and self-care behaviors related to diet and blood glucose testing. While the program shows promise for promoting healthier lifestyles and behaviors, particularly when combined with additional interventions, overall evidence for clinical outcomes is mixed.

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Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

Project Power, developed by the American Diabetes Association and delivered by HabitNu, is a program designed to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and support disease management. The program utilizes a digital app that provides users with tools for progress monitoring, including a food diary, weight and activity trackers, a secure discussion forum, educational videos, and communication features for interaction with health coaches.

Evidence & Research Context

Studied in clinical trials, Project Power has shown mixed evidence regarding its impact on health outcomes.
A cluster randomized controlled trial (N=146 African American participants with diabetes and prediabetes) found that the intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in diabetes knowledge and self-care behaviors related to diet and blood glucose testing compared to a control group receiving a health brochure.
Another randomized trial across nine churches evaluated Project Power alone and in combination with a faith-based intervention (HBHS+PP). This study found that the combined HBHS+PP intervention significantly decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.02 and p=0.01, respectively), improved food-related self-efficacy (p=0.04), and decreased the purchasing of less healthy foods (p=0.02) compared to Project Power alone or a delayed intervention.

Intended Use & Scope

Project Power is intended for adults and youth seeking to identify and lower their risk for diabetes or manage existing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. The app supports lifestyle modifications through tracking and educational content. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should consult a physician for medical conditions.

Studies & Publications

2 publications

Peer-reviewed research associated with this app.

RCT

Cardiovascular disease risk among rural residents living with diabetes and prediabetes: A cluster randomized trial

Abbott et al. (2019) · Public Health Nursing

The intervention group showed significant improvements in diabetes knowledge and self-care behaviors related to diet and blood glucose testing compared to the control group.

Abstract: Objective: Diabetes is a major health problem that is closely linked with cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death in the United States. The purpose of this analysis was to determine the effect of a culturally relevant diabetes health promotion program on diabetes knowledge and self‐reported self‐care behaviors.DesignA cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in 12 rural church settings. Seven churches were

RCT

A Church-Based Diabetes Risk Factor Prevention Program Improves Psychosocial Factors and Food-Related Behaviors

Gittelsohn et al. (2019) · Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved

The combined church-based program improved psychosocial factors and food-related behaviors, but Project POWER on its own showed no significant benefit

Abstract: Objective. To evaluate the impact of a faith-based diabetes risk prevention program. Design. Nine predominately African American (AA) churches were randomized to one of three groups – group 1 (intervention group) received the Healthy Bodies Healthy Souls faith-based intervention and Project POWER (HBHS+PP), group 2 received PP only, and group 3 received a delayed intervention (comparison group). Results. Church members in the HBHS+PP

In the Media

Project Power, a No-Cost Diabetes Risk Reduction Program Is Now Enrolling

Project Power is a no-cost lifestyle change program by the American Diabetes Association for adults aged 18 and over with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, or high risk for diabetes. It offers a personalized program combining health coaching, an evidence-based curriculum, and a gamified experience across eight sessions led by medical professionals. Participants receive tools like an activity tracker and smart scale, one-on-one coaching, and access to a private social network. The program, available in English and Spanish, focuses on weight reduction, healthy eating, physical activity, and understanding diabetes's impact on overall health.

American Diabetes AssociationRead article

The American Diabetes Association Selects HabitNu to Deliver Project Power

Project Power is an American Diabetes Association initiative, delivered by HabitNu, that aims to help adults and youth identify and lower their risk for type 2 diabetes or manage the disease. The program provides diabetes risk reduction education and services, promoting healthy food choices, increased physical activity, and family support. Participants use digital tools like the HabitNu app, wireless scales, and activity trackers to monitor progress. It is offered in-person and virtually in high-risk and vulnerable communities nationwide.

HabitNuRead article