Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #103342

Nancy L. Fahrenwald, PhD, RN¹, Cristina Lammers, MD, MPH¹, Thomas Stenvig, PhD, MPH, RN¹, and Paula Goddard, MS, RN². (1) College of Nursing, South Dakota State University, Box 2275, Brookings, SD 57007, 605-688-4098, Nancy_Fahrenwald@sdstate.edu, (2) South Dakota State University, College of Nursing, 1011 11th St., Rapid City, SD 57701

Diabetes is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in South Dakota (SD), a predominantly rural state. The purpose of this presentation is to examine the social justice implications of findings from community member focus groups related to diabetes prevention and care in SD. Fourteen focus groups were conducted in 12 communities. Participants were diabetic adults, family members and other interested people (N=141, age range 21-89 years, 15% American Indian). Qualitative content analysis for emerging themes was used to analyze transcribed notes. Results indicated that community members benefit from diabetes support groups yet rural dwellers lack access to groups. Certified diabetes educators are trusted and more are needed in rural areas. Findings showed that primary health care providers are not always trusted to provide competent diabetes care. Access to high quality foods is a barrier for rural and reservation dwellers. American Indian participants are aware of a need for kidney donation among their people as a consequence of pervasive and poorly managed diabetes. Concern for children and needs for improvements in health communication, the referral process and comprehensive local care in rural communities were critical issues. Social justice in diabetes prevention and care implies that there is a fair and equitable distribution of health benefits and burdens among population subgroups. In order to address diabetes-related inequities, community and system level interventions and health policies are needed to assure quality diabetes care, meaningful prevention programs and quality of life for rural and reservation communities.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe social justice issues raised in a qualitative assessment of diabetes prevention and care needs among rural dwelling adults.
• Anticipate intervention strategies to address health disparities and inequities related to diabetes prevention and care needs perceived by rural dwelling adults.

Keywords: Social Justice, Diabetes

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation