Applying Community-Based Participatory Research to Create a Diabetes Prevention Documentary with New Zealand Māori

Background: Type 2 diabetes is almost three times more prevalent in the indigenous people of New Zealand (Māori) than non-Māori. Despite the high rate of diabetes in the Māori population, little is known about their personal understanding or experience of the disease.

Objectives: To engage Māori in a participatory process to develop a culturally relevant diabetes prevention documentary.

Methods: Principles of community-based participatory research (CBPR) were applied to a qualitative research design employing key informant interviews and focus groups to develop a diabetes prevention documentary.

Conclusions: A CBPR approach provides an appropriate model for enacting local action-oriented approaches in the creation of a documentary that reflects Māori cultural beliefs and practices.