Diabetes Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors Among Somali and Latino Immigrants
Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health Dec 2015
A community-based participatory research effort led by RHCP assessed diabetes knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among Somali and Latino immigrants with type 2 diabetes in Rochester, Minnesota. Through a culturally and linguistically adapted survey administered by trained community partners, 78 participants shared their experiences managing diabetes. Despite high engagement with healthcare providers and strong self-reported confidence in managing their condition, actual diabetes knowledge was low. Participants reported significant disease burden, negative emotional impacts, and barriers to physical activity and glucose monitoring. However, they also demonstrated high levels of self-efficacy and social support, particularly from family members.
Findings revealed striking similarities between Somali and Latino participants, suggesting that shared experiences of immigration, socioeconomic challenges, and limited English proficiency may play a more significant role in shaping diabetes management than cultural differences alone. These insights underscore the importance of tailoring interventions to address systemic barriers and leveraging community strengths. The data will inform future behavioral interventions aimed at improving diabetes outcomes and reducing health disparities among immigrant and refugee populations in the U.S.
