Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-11-2026

Academic Year

2025-2026

Comments

Presented at the 2026 Scholarly Inquiry (SI) Research Project Symposium.

Abstract

Introduction/Purpose: Previous studies have demonstrated that diabetes is linked to mental health disorders, including depression. In our student-delivered education program, Jefferson Glycemic Load (JeffGL), we aim to investigate the effects of glycemic load patient education on depression in diabetic and prediabetic patients. We hypothesize that participants will demonstrate reduced depression scores compared to baseline, measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), after participation in JeffGL.

Methods: Over four weeks with long-term follow up, thirty overweight or obese patients with prediabetes or diabetes recruited from Jefferson’s Department of Family Medicine will participate in one-on-one and group Zoom sessions weekly concerning topics such as diet and insulin resistance. These sessions, delivered by trained students using a motivational interviewing framework, will support individualized health goals. PHQ-9 scores are assessed at baseline and after program completion using REDCap. Statistical analysis will be performed using SPSS and SAS 9.4.

Results/Conclusions: We hypothesize that, upon completion of the JeffGL program, participants will exhibit lower PHQ-9 scores compared to baseline, indicating reduced depression levels. Full data will be presented on my poster, highlighting the benefits of JeffGL as an affordable and accessible health education program for underserved urban populations. Beyond improving hemoglobin A1c levels, our interventions may also benefit mental health, highlighting the value of incorporating motivational interviewing by student health coaches into clinical health programs. One limitation of JeffGL is the program’s short duration; thus, participants will be encouraged to join the 12-week Jefferson Weight Loss Program to assess long-term benefits.

Additional Files
La_Emily_poster.pdf (284 kB)

Language

English

Download

Share

COinS