Fresh Takes!: An Evaluation of the Impact of Receiving Fresh Food Boxes

BEHAVIORAL

Fresh Takes!

Receipt of a fresh produce box, nutritional education and support in a 6 month program

Change in HbA1c levels

Time frame: From baseline up to 12 months after program completion, up to 18 months total

Change in HbA1C levels will be evaluated from preintervention to postintervention. Participants' baseline HbA1c values will be abstracted from medical records. The HbA1c value obtained during clinical care closest to the time of enrollment will serve as the baseline value. The HbA1c reading obtained during clinical care closest to the end date of the program will be used as the follow up measure. For participants with prediabetes, blood glucose levels will be measured to see whether HbA1c values have normalized (i.e., HbA1c \< 5.7%). Participants with diabetes will be assessed as to whether they have achieved better diabetic control (i.e., reduction of 0.5% from their baseline HbA1c level). Change from baseline group results for prediabetes and diabetes participants within each cohort will be summarized using basic descriptive statistics. Elevated HbA1c levels are a significant risk factor in many disease conditions. Better glycemic control leads to more favorable outcomes.

Change in Food Security

Time frame: At baseline (intake visit), 3 months, and at 6 months (program completion)

Change in food security from preintervention to postintervention as measured by the USDA Six-item Short Form of the Food Security Survey. Participant responses are coded as described on the short form and the sum of affirmative responses to the six questions in the module represents the raw score on the scale with a possible scoring range of 0-6 with higher scores being indicative of greater food insecurity. Specifically, an overall score from 0-1 represents high food security; an overall score from 2-4 represents low food security; and an overall score from 5-6 represents very low food security. Group results within each cohort will be summarized.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.