JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Obesity represents a significant public health challenge in the United States particularly among Latino/a/x/e communities and those in under-resourced settings. Virtual reality is a new and innovative technology that can promote physical activity and has the potential to overcome some structural barriers. However, there a few studies that explore the acceptability of using this new technology among high-risk groups in under-resourced settings.

Objective:

We outline a community-informed protocol for conducting focus groups with Latino/a/x/e adults who have cardiometabolic risk factors and obesity, residing in under-resourced communities. The focus groups will assess the acceptability of a culturally aligned virtual reality (VR) program to promote physical activity.

Methods:

Using a community-engaged approach informed by community health workers(CHWs) and a Community Advisory Board (CAB), we delivered an immersive VR dance experience to Latino/a/x/e adult participants with cardiometabolic risk factors and obesity. Following the VR experience, we conducted semi-structured focus group interviews to assess acceptability, guided by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). Data collection included a baseline demographic survey, Fitbit data, and focus group discussions to evaluate participant experiences and programs’ acceptability.

Results:

As of April 2025, we completed seven focus groups with 44 participants across three age groups: 18-29, 30-49, and 50-70 years.

Conclusions:

The fully analyzed data from this study will offer insights into leveraging VR as an innovative tool for promoting physical activity in underserved populations, contributing to the broader literature on digital health equity and obesity prevention.