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Article
Health Beliefs of Diabetic Pacific Islanders in Iowa
Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities
  • Susan K. Dadisman
  • Ann Weltin, Sacred Heart University
Document Type
Peer-Reviewed Article
Publication Date
1-1-2022
Abstract

Diabetic Pacific Islanders from the Federated State of Micronesia island state of Pohnpei have settled in rural Iowa. Little is known about the people of Pohnpei. Research was undertaken to examine health practices and cultural beliefs of diabetic Ponapeans. Open-ended questions were utilized to interview 15 adults about their experiences in caring for their diabetes. Four themes were identified among participants: attitude toward diabetes, food choices, barriers to care, and support from community and family. Health care providers must prioritize culturally sensitive care. Understanding the importance of Ponapean faith and social community, working with community elders, and adapting diabetic education to address the role of rice as a primary food source are specific ways to meet the needs of the Ponapean people.

Comments

Online ahead of print 06 July 2021.

DOI
10.1007/s40615-021-01099-0
PMID
34231162
Publisher
Springer
Citation Information

Dadisman, S. K., & Weltin, A. (2022). Health beliefs of diabetic Pacific islanders in Iowa. Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 9(5), 1601-1606. Doi.org/10.1007/s40615-021-01099-0