The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #41134

Sheila S. Tann, RN, ND, College of Nursing, Arizona State University, P.O. Box 872602, Tempe, AZ 85287-2602, 480 965-7558, sheila.tann@asu.edu

Background: The prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes has been rising in American Indian Communities since the early 1900’s. Some tribes experience prevalence rates of fifty percent in adults over 35 years of age. This disease, previously referred to as “Adult-onset”, is now affecting adolescents and children among indigenous people at disproportionately high rates. Tribes have recognized the devastating effects that diabetes will have on generations if not controlled in the immediate future. In response, they have chosen to focus on primary prevention strategies to combat the rising incidence rates. Methods: The Indian Health Service (I.H.S.) National Diabetes Program, “2000 Interim Report to Congress” was reviewed for content related to primary prevention. Results: The Balanced Budget Act of 1997 provided for 150 million dollars in funds focused on the prevention and treatment of diabetes in American Indians. These funds were made available to federally recognized tribes and urban health programs through the administration of the I.H.S. and guidance of the Tribal Leaders Diabetes Committee. In the first 2 years, approximately seventy percent of tribal / urban Indian programs utilized funding for primary prevention. These efforts consisted of a variety of programs aimed at increasing physical activity, weight loss, community-based education, and maternal/child health. Discussion: Tribal and urban Indian health programs have dramatically increased the number of programs aimed at decreasing the prevalence of diabetes in their communities. It is important to share these experiences in an effort to increase the number of successful diabetes prevention models in American Indian communities.

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