199121 Disparities in dilated eye exams among adults with diabetes: An intersectional approach

Monday, November 9, 2009: 9:05 AM

DeLawnia T. Comer-HaGans, PhD Candidate , School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences; Department of Public Affairs, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX
Disparities in health care continue to exist despite advancements in medicine and health. It is not uncommon for individuals who are of lower socio-economic status to experience worse health outcomes than those of higher socio-economic status. This seems to be the case despite controlling for various confounders such as income and education. This situation is compounded when individuals have a chronic disease such as diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that claims many individuals, in particular, minorities and those of low socio-economic status. If diabetes is not controlled, it can lead to vision troubles, thus individuals with diabetes should obtain a dilated eye exam to ensure that this does not occur. Intersectionality theory directs this analysis and provides a basis for understanding disparities in dilated eye exams among adults with diabetes. In particular, the theory examines any observed differences in dilated eye exams based on the intersection of race/ethnicity, class, age, and gender.

Learning Objectives:
1. List the characteristics of diabetic adults who get dilated eye exams. 2. Discuss the role that intersectionality theory of race/ethnicity, class, age, or gender plays on diabetic adults who do not get dilated eye exams. 3. Explain how a better understanding of disparities can increase greater participation rates among diabetic adults to get dilated eye exams

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: Currently working on a dissertation in this area of study at the University of Texas at Dallas in the department of Public Affairs
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.