A randomized-controlled trial to test the efficacy of a culturally grounded, community-based diabetes prevention program to increase insulin sensitivity and weight-specific quality of life in 160 obese Latino youth.

The project will serve as an independent evaluation center for three childhood obesity demonstration projects. The aims of the BETTER Policies project are to: assist the three DP in identifying assessment methods and tools; design a comprehensive evaluation plan in collaboration with the projects and CDC; serve as the central data repository; conduct an impact evaluation to assess process and outcomes of the projects; disseminate information and recommendations to decision-makers and the public; develop an evaluation toolbox that can be used in future program evaluations.

The National Hispanic Science Network (NHSN) Early Career Stage Mentoring Program for NIDA Research (ECSM) addresses a current Hispanic minority under-representation among NIHINIDA principal investigators, and will provide training and mentoring for Hispanic early career stage scientists, including future HNI AIDS researchers.