Challenges in delivering a health behavior intervention to immigrant and native populations on the U.S.-Mexico border

This presentation identifies and discusses challenges that surfaced during a 5-year study delivered to immigrant and native populations in the Southmost region of Texas along the US Mexico border. 

Challenges to the delivery included among others:  paperwork documentation establishing residency in the United States,  suitability of physical space in which to conduct the physical activity, obstacles to healthy eating stemming from poverty, lack of accessibility to health care, legal risks incurred from walking in open spaces, limited health literacy and education, and care-giving. 

Despite these barriers, excellent results were obtained and attrition was minimized.  The development and implementation of strategies to mitigate or resolve altogether these challenges will be presented and discussed.