Introduction to Demonstration Project Grants
Diabetes and cardiovascular disease have reached epidemic proportions in many communities throughout the United States. In recent years, however, major clinical trials and research studies have shed light on promising diabetes prevention and cardiovascular disease risk reduction strategies. Despite this body of scientific knowledge, knowing how to implement these research findings in diverse communities and health care settings remains a challenge.
In 2004, Congress directed the IHS Division of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention to implement a new grant program within the Special Diabetes Program for Indians called the Demonstration Projects. A key goal of the Demonstration Projects is to determine how to translate the latest research findings on diabetes prevention and cardiovascular disease risk reduction in the diverse settings of American Indian and Alaska Native communities.
Funded through a competitive grant selection process, the Demonstration Project grant programs are currently implementing comprehensive diabetes prevention and cardiovascular disease risk reduction interventions, community awareness activities, and evaluation plans in 66 American Indian and Alaska Native communities throughout the United States. The IHS is poised and ready to share the successes and lessons learned through the Demonstration Projects to help other communities and health care organizations implement successful diabetes prevention and cardiovascular disease risk reduction strategies.
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