South Asian cultural concepts in diabetes

Osman, Amina

Amina Osman is staff nurse, Nightingale Ward, Whipps Cross University Hospital Trust; Joan Curzio is professor of practice development, Faculty of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University.

• This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

Nursing Times 108(10):p 28-32, March 6, 2012.

Abstract

South Asian people are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Nurses need to understand cultural issues to provide individually tailored care

Osman A, Curzio J (2012) South Asian cultural concepts in diabetes. Nursing Times; 108: 10, 28-32.

Background

Type 2 diabetes is a significant health problem in the South Asian community.

Aim

To extract messages from primary research reports to improve nurses' cultural understanding so they are better able to promote self-management among people of South Asian origin with type 2 diabetes.

Method

A review was conducted of studies describing people from this group, cultural concepts of their diabetes management and the impact of culturally sensitive care.

Results

Eight studies involved adults of South Asian origin, with three focused solely on the Bangladeshi community. They all explored cultural perceptions of diabetes and self-management.

Conclusion

Cultural beliefs play an important role in attitudes towards diabetes among people of South Asian origin. Understanding their beliefs improves the care provided to this community.