Full Citation

Title: Diabetes Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors Among Somali and Latino Immigrants

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2016

ISBN:

ISSN:

DOI: 10.1007/s10903-015-0335-5

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Abstract: Persons from Somalia constitute the largest group of immigrants and refugees from Africa among whom diabetes-related health disparities are well documented. As one of the first steps toward developing a behavioral intervention to address diabetes among Somali immigrants and refugees, we administered a face to face interview-based survey to Somali and Latino adults with diabetes in a single community to assess diabetes knowledge, attitudes and behaviors. Respondents (N = 78) reported several barriers to optimal diabetes management for physical activity and glucose self-monitoring, as well as a high burden of disease and negative perceptions of diabetes. High participant engagement in disease management, self-efficacy, and social support were important assets. Similarities suggest that the shared experiences of immigration and related systemic socioeconomic and linguistic factors play a significant role in the understanding and self-management of diabetes in these populations. Together with previously collected qualitative work, the survey findings will inform development of a behavioral intervention to improve outcomes and reduce diabetes-related health disparities among immigrant and refugee groups to the U.S.

Url: http://link.springer.com/10.1007/s10903-015-0335-5

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Authors: Njeru, Jane W.; Formea, Christine M.; Osman, Ahmed; Goodson, Miriam; Hared, Abdullah; Capetillo, Graciela Porraz; Nigon, Julie A.; Cha, Stephen S.; Weis, Jennifer A.; Hanza, Marcelo M. K.; Patten, Christi A.; Sia, Irene G.; Wieland, Mark L.

Periodical (Full): Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health

Issue: 6

Volume: 18

Pages: 1432-1440

Data Collections: IPUMS USA

Topics: Health, Migration and Immigration, Other

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