(1) Justification: Uncontrolled diabetes is a major cause of disability and mortality in the US. (2) Objectives: Identify racial/ethnic differences in undiagnosed disease, inadequate control of diabetes and related behavioral factors. (3) Methods: This study is based on a weighted sample from data collected in the (1988-94) NHANES Survey representative of the 39 million Americans age 60 or over. The population was divided into 3 groups: normal serum glucose, high serum glucose but undiagnosed, and those who reported a diagnosis of diabetes. (4) Results: More than one fifth of the population had either a diagnosis of diabetes (12.8%) or a serum glucose elevation with no awareness of a diagnosis (8.2%). The mean blood glucose level for these groups was 97.2 mg, and 184.7 mg, respectively. Among the unaware group, Mexican Americans had the highest blood glucose levels (196.7mg) followed by whites (177.0mg), African Americans (185.4mg) and other Hispanics (162.1mg). With the exception of church attendance, where they were higher than all other groups, Mexican Americans had the lowest scores on four other measures of social support. Further analysis will examine other life-style, socio-demographic and psychosocial factors that may help to explain these findings. (5) Significance: Preliminary results show significant disparities on key indicators related to diabetes diagnosis and control among racial/ethnic groups. Reducing these disparities will require cultural-sensitive health education and psychosocial interventions. Future progress will also depend upon multi-disciplinary research in diverse populations, including many persons who may not yet be in treatment or prevention programs.
Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the relationship between psychosocial factors and disparities in the diagnosis, treatment and control of diabetes. 2. Learn how those unaware of diabetes can represent an important intervention group in racial/ethnic populations. 3. Discuss the strategies for eliminating disparities in diabetes diagnosis and control using culturally sensitive health education and psychosocial interventions
Keywords: Diabetes, Ethnic Minorities
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.