200697 Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perception Regarding Diabetes in the New York City Bangladeshi Community: A Mixed-Methods Approach

Monday, November 9, 2009: 9:15 AM

Nadia Islam, PhD , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY
Krittika Ghosh, MsC , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY
Gulnahar Alam , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY
Mamnunul Haq , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY
Runi Mukherji, PhD , Department of Psychology, SUNY College at Old Westbury, Old Westbury, NY
Purnima Naik , Morris Heights Health Center, Bronx, NY
Darius Tandon, PhD , Department of Pediatrics & Department of Population, Family, & Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
Morsheda Begum , Andolan, Jackson Heights, NY
Shahnaz Yousef , Adhunika, Jamaica, NY
Moushumi Shabnam , Adhunika, Jamaica, NY
Michael Tanner , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, DREAM Coalition, New York, NY
Bhairavi Desai , New York Taxi Workers Alliance, New York, NY
Julie Ruckel, MPH , Transcendent, New York, NY
Ying Hua Liu , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, DREAM Coalition, New York, NY
Sonali Tawdekar, MD, MPH , Pediatrics Administration, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY
Chau Trinh-Shevrin, DrPH , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, New York, NY
Mariano Rey, MD , Center for the Study of Asian American Health, NYU Institute of Community Health and Research, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
     
Background

Research suggests South Asians exhibit higher diabetes morbidity compared to other minority groups in the U.S. However, little is known about diabetes among Bangladeshis, a significant subgroup of the larger diasporic population. Few studies have examined knowledge and beliefs regarding diabetes among Bangladeshis. Such information is needed to develop culturally appropriate intervention strategies to improve diabetes prevention and management.

Methods

Sixty men and women participated in a series of six gender-segregated focus groups. Participants were recruited through advertisements in ethnic media and direct street outreach. Trained focus group moderators utilized a standardized guide to elicit information on health beliefs and behaviors regarding diabetes prevention and management. In addition, all focus group participants completed a 60-item interviewer-administered survey that included questions on socio-demographic characteristics, health behaviors, health beliefs, access to healthcare, and willingness to participate in interventions.

Results

Focus group data reveal that most participants believe diabetes can be controlled and prevented, and is closely linked to diet and exercise. Participants expressed fear of being diagnosed with diabetes, but diabetes was not a stigmatized disease. Attendees discussed the concept of “niyom” (following a routine) to promote diabetes prevention and control, but enumerated various difficulties in following dietary and physical activity guidelines. Participants universally supported the need for educational interventions in this community. Women were more likely than men to report wanting group educational sessions that promote social support. Quantitative survey results will also be presented. Study results demonstrate the need for diabetes prevention and management program in this growing community.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to: 1) Articulate beliefs and perceptions regarding diabetes in the Bangladeshi community 2)Understand the importance of using mixed methods to address health disparities issues in immigrant population 3)Explain how qualitative and quantitative data will be used to inform intervention research

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: faculty member at NYU School of Medicine with a focus on health disparities issue
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.

See more of: Health of South Asian Americans
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