ABSTRACT: Abstract Objectives We sought to understand the feasibility, acceptability, and sustainability of using peer educators to deliver a worksite-based lifestyle intervention program to reduce cardiometabolic risk in India. Methods INtegrating DIAbetes prevention in WORKplaceS (INDIA-WORKS, Clinicaltrial.gov #NCT02813668) is an implementation study to evaluate a lifestyle intervention program targeting employees with prediabetes or newly diagnosed diabetes in ten worksites in India. Peer educators were recruited at each worksite and trained to teach lifestyle classes. We conducted in-depth interviews with managers (n = 16), peer educators (n = 29), and implementation team members (n = 8) and focus group discussions with employees participating in the program (n = 13) to evaluate program delivery, including use of peer educators in this setting. Interviews and focus groups were conducted in-person, audio-recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results Peer educators’ involvement in teaching classes varied across worksites. This variation was related to differences in the training peer educators received, degree of management support provided, and peer educators’ levels of confidence to teach classes (e.g., discuss nutrition topics). Most peer educators liked their role, as it allowed them to learn about lifestyle change and benefit other employees (e.g., by encouraging them to be physically active), themselves (e.g., by losing weight), and their families (e.g., by preparing and serving healthier meals at home). Many employees participating in the program were satisfied with the peer educators, though some preferred “experts” such as implementation team members to lead classes. For program sustainability, there remains a need to increase peer educators’ capacity to teach classes and maintain their motivation. Conclusions Findings indicate that while it may be feasible for peer educators to deliver worksite-based lifestyle programs in India, it is critical to ensure that they have confidence and training, management support, and motivation to carry out their role. Research is needed to understand the type of training and support necessary to develop a cadre of effective peer educators and strategies for sustaining their engagement in the program. Funding Sources NIH R01HL125442 NIH D43TW009337.
