# Multi-level intervention to promote healthy beverage choices among Navajo families

> **NIH NIH R01** · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · 2024 · $540,691

## Abstract

PROJECT ABSTRACT
Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption in early childhood has profound implications on future health
risks into adulthood. Family-based strategies have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing chronic health risk
among children, yet few family-based interventions have specifically targeted healthy beverage consumption.
This study advances a long-term goal of developing scalable, multi-level interventions to promote
intergenerational health among indigenous families. Using community-based participatory methods and an
indigenous conceptual framework – the Navajo Wellness Model – we will conduct a cluster randomized trial to
study the effectiveness of Water is K’é, an innovative multi-level intervention designed to promote healthy
beverage consumption through strengthened connections with Navajo culture, health information and access
to reliable drinking water. Early child education sites will be randomly assigned to immediate or delayed
intervention. Children enrolled in the programs, their primary caregiver and other family members will be
enrolled and followed for 12 months to assess beverage consumption, health outcomes, as well as family
cohesion and cultural continuity. Using a mixed methods design, we will explore how intergenerational family
dynamics influence the way in which Water is K’é shapes family health and wellbeing. Finally, we will build
greater research capacity in among Navajo partners through Community Advisory Group guidance and
leadership, as well as mentorship of tribal college students interested in community research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10934482
- **Project number:** 5R01MD018997-02
- **Recipient organization:** BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- **Principal Investigator:** Carmen George
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $540,691
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2023-09-24 → 2028-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10934482

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10934482, Multi-level intervention to promote healthy beverage choices among Navajo families (5R01MD018997-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10934482. Licensed CC0.

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