Oral

Hispanic/Latinos (HL) represent an estimated 15% of the US population (US Census Bureau, 2007), during the next three decades this population is expected to greatly increase and will impact many key areas of our society including the health sector. The disproportionate burden of specific risk factors and illness among the Hispanic/Latino community is of particular concern. Cancer, for example, is the second leading cause of death, accounting for 20% of all deaths among Hispanics. Hispanics/Latinos are more likely to develop diabetes which is the 6th leading causer of death in this community. Similarly, rates of obesity, a risk factor for diabetes and other cardiovascular disease are disproportionately higher. The purpose of this session is to explore specific dimensions of program development and implementation that could enhance the success of interventions. Topics to be considered include the recruitment of Hispanic/Latinos in intervention trials, specific cancer disease knowledge assessment, predictors of adherence with diabetes self-care regimens, and perceived barriers to initiating treatment or maintaining positive health behaviors. This session is relevant to public health leaders and providers interested in exploring strategies to improve program development directed at Hispanic/Latino Communities and to leaders in academia interested in understanding perceived barriers to participation in intervention programs.

Session Objectives: 1.Discuss the challenges to participation in research trials for Mexican-American adults with diabetes. 2.Describe key components necessary for intervention recruitment success in a Mexican-American population. 3.Describe sub-ethnic differences in knowledge of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. 4.Identify predictors of adherence in Latinos with Type II Diabetes. 5.Describe associations between health risk indicators and psychosocial factors. 6.Evaluate perceived cancer treatment barriers between patients and their family members.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)