Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are more likely than non-Indigenous Australians to experience overweight and obesity which contribute to 7.2% of the overall health gap.
The Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation Metabolic Program was developed as a culturally adapted model based on the South Western Sydney Metabolic Rehabilitation and Bariatric Program at Camden Hospital, to improve engagement and outcomes. It is a collaboration between Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, South Western Sydney Local Health District, Western Sydney University, South Western Sydney Primary Health Network and NSW Ministry of Health that aims to provide multidisciplinary specialist care for the Indigenous community, integrated and located in the Aboriginal Medical Service.
The community-led and designed program offers culturally responsive services, including guidance and support by Aboriginal Health Workers, group education and exercise classes, as well as regular yarning sessions. The additional components provide physical health support in a culturally safe environment, while creating spaces for community connections, storytelling, and peer support.
Of the 29 participants enrolled, 82.8% (n=24) were female. Mean age was 41.5 years (range 23 to 65) years, the average BMI 45.88 (SD ± 6.13) and average weight of 128.75kg (SD ± 22.35). Type II Diabetes in 33.3% (n=8) of participants; hypertension and dyslipidemia in 33.3% (n=8) and 19% (n=4) respectively; and GORD in 58.3% (n=14); varying severity of obstructive sleep apnea ranging from mild (2, 9.1%), moderate (1, 4.5%), to severe (5, 22.7%); Polycystic ovarian syndrome in 20% (n=4) female participants.
By embedding culture and connection, the program moves beyond a clinical model to address the broader social determinants of health, which has been shown to strengthen trust, increase participation and retention, and support for holistic wellbeing, illustrating a feasible health program.
We look forward to presenting outcomes in future analysis.