Spanish Translation of StartSmartTM using the Beaton Process to Ensure Tech Equity

Objective. Perinatal outcomes in the United States are poor among Hispanics, the country's fastest-growing population. Hispanics experience higher rates of obesity, diabetes, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and pregnancy-related hypertension, as well as 20% of infant deaths. StartSmarttm, an mHealth app, screens for risk and protective factors. This project translated and culturally adapted StartSmarttm for Spanish-speaking pregnant women. Methods. Using the Beaton process for translation and cultural adaptation, we completed a six-stage process. Stage I: Translation into Spanish, Stage II: Synthesis of the translations, Stage III: Back-translation, Stage IV: Expert committee review, Stage V: Pretesting with Spanish-speaking pregnant women, Stage VI: Appraisal of process. Results. StartSmarttm was acceptable and feasible for use during prenatal visits. Participants reported ease of use and understanding the material. No issues regarding literacy were identified, and participants provided helpful feedback for refining StartSmarttm for Spanish-speaking women. Conclusions. The Beaton process ensures culturally appropriate translation.