Purpose

The first purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a culturally appropriate diabetes management program tailored to Chinese immigrants with type-2 diabetes. The second purpose was to examine outcomes of the intervention.

Method

Forty eligible subjects were recruited via network sampling, physician referrals or newspaper advertisements to participate in this 10-session program. Data regarding the use of Chinese medicine and therapy were collected by interviewing at baseline. Feasibility and acceptability of the program were evaluated by percentage of participants meeting the course objectives and participants’ satisfaction with the program. Outcomes measures included the body weight, blood pressure and HbA1c levels which were measured at the beginning, the end and three months following program completion.

Results

Eight percent of the participants concurrently used Chinese medicine and Western medicine. Results revealed that 75% of the participants understood the course content, while 70% of them were able to identify and demonstrate various diabetes management skills. All participants were satisfied with the program. Regarding outcome variables, 43.6% of the participants lost more than 5 pounds, had an average of 1% reduction in HbA1c level and reduction in blood pressure at 3 months post program completion.

Conclusion

The favorable outcomes of this culturally tailored diabetes program indicate that it is a feasible and acceptable tool in reducing the health disparities in the Chinese immigrant population and may be adapted for use in other ethnic groups.

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Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004