Date of Conferral

2015

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Diana Naser

Abstract

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) data suggest that Latinos share a greater burden of disease than do non-Latino Whites with type 2 diabetes. As a result of poor glycemic control, Latinos also suffer consequences such as blindness, kidney disease, and limb amputation more often than do other ethnic groups. The purpose of this study was to compare demographic factors of Latinos with well-controlled type 2 diabetes, as measured by a HgbA1c of 7 or less (n = 118) to Latinos not well controlled (n = 105). This cross sectional study used a secondary data set with a sample selected from the population of an urban, federally-qualified health center. The sample included all who were diabetic and Latino. Demographic factors examined included distance to a supermarket and gym, age, gender, language, employment status, health insurance status, number in family, and role in family. Using Chi square analysis, each demographic factor was cross-tabulated with the HgbA1c, the proxy for control, to determine which, if any, factors were associated with poor disease control. The results of the analyses showed no correlation between the demographic factors examined and poor control of diabetes. Although no positive associations were determined, this study provided information that was lacking in the literature. It provided data indicating that these demographic factors do not seem to affect diabetic control. This information was not previously found in the literature. Using the social epidemiological model, suggestions for interventions were made, such as incorporating family and social factors into individualized diabetes care plans, to improve diabetes care. Implementing the suggestions could possibly minimize the burden of illness among Latino diabetics and reduce this health disparity for Latinos.

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