Objective: To determine the relationship between certain psychosocial variables and Type 2 diabetes in order to recommend prevention interventions. Methods: In the Cherokee Diabetes Study, risk factors for Type 2 diabetes are evaluated in members of the Cherokee Nation aged 5 to 40 years. Psychosocial variables include the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List (ISEL), knowledge of risk for diabetes, education, and Indian traditionality. Descriptive variables include age, degree of Indian blood, and gender. A subsample of adolescent and adult participants aged 15 to 40 years was selected and analyses were performed by gender. Presence of diabetes was defined as known disease based on self-report and chart review; new diabetics were diagnosed based on WHO criteria. Statistical methods included t-tests and logistic regression analyses. Results: Variables positively associated with diabetes for the whole subsample were age, degree of Indian blood, and Indian traditionality. Knowledge of diabetes risk and tangible support as measured by the ISEL were negatively associated with diabetes. When analysis was done by gender, age and diabetes risk knowledge were found to be significantly related to diabetes in both genders. Education (negative) and degree of Indian blood (positive) were significantly associated with diabetes in women only. In men, tangible support (negative) and Indian traditionality (positive) were found to be significant risk factors for diabetes. Conclusion: Educational programs and social support are important in the prevention of Type 2 diabetes.
Learning Objectives: 1. List four psychosocial variables related to Type 2 diabetes. 2. Discuss psychosocial factors to consider in developing prevention interventions for Type 2. diabetes
Keywords: American Indians, Diabetes
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.