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Healthy Drama? Why Soap Operas May Help Fight Diabetes
ResumeCan soap operas help jump start a healthier lifestyle?
One group of researchers at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center thinks they might help. In a recent community-based approach, researchers used various techniques — including cooking classes, supermarket tours, and yes, soap operas — to help Lawrence residents at risk of developing diabetes to stave off the disease.
After one year, results for these study participants, most with less than a high school education and with an average Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35, considered obese, were mixed.
In our weekly Commonhealth segment, we'll take a closer look.
Guests:
- Dr. Ira S. Ockene, professor of medicine and director of preventive cardiology and community engagement research, University of Massachusetts Medical School.
- Rachel Zimmerman, co-host, WBUR's Commonhealth blog.
More:
This program aired on December 20, 2011.