The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #42021

Felicia S. Hodge, DrPH, Center for American Indian Research and Education, University of Minnesota, 6-125B Weaver-Densford Hall, 308 Harvard Street, Minneapolis, MN 55455, 612-624-6956, hodge029@umn.edu, Betty A. Geishirt Cantrell, MSSW, MBA, Center for American Indian Research & Education, University of Minnesota, 1918 University Avenue, Suite 3-A, Berkeley, CA 94704, Roxanne Struthers, PhD, RN, School of Nursing, University Of Minnesota, 6-113 Weaver-Densford Hall, 308 Harvard Street, Minneapolis, MN 55455, and Lorelei DeCora, RN-C, Center for American Indian Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, 1918 University Avenue, Suite 3 A, Berkeley, CA 94704.

American Indians present with extremely high rates of Type 2 Diabetes. A culturally appropriate intervention was developed to prevent diabetes and promote treatment compliance. Talking Circles were led by trained community members to implement the 12-session curriculum. Information on chronic diseases, nutrition, exercise, and the impact of these health problems on family and community were presented in an interactive fashion. Pre- and post-tests were completed by participants to obtain demographic information and measure change in knowledge, behaviors, and attitudes. Analysis of the data indicate high incidence rates for several risk factors. This incidence complicates a population already at high risk for diabetes and other chronic diseases. Involvement by community members in developing and implementing the curriculum provided the mechanisms to incorporate cultural beliefs, community support, limited resources, and native language in the effective provision of education on diabetes and its prevention. The preliminary findings will be reported including demographics, incidence of risk factors, and effectiveness of the tested intervention.

Learning Objectives: At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to

• Describe the components of a Talking Circle diabetes intervention.
• List risk factors evident in an American Indian population at high risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases.
• Understand the importance of community involvement in partnering to develop a culturally appropriate program.

Keywords: American Indians, Diabetes

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employed by the University of Minnesota. Principal Investigator on research project.