EVALUATION OF A DIABETES SELF-MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR HISPANICS IN LEXINGTON KENTUCKY: A PILOT STUDY

Abstract

Hispanics are more affected by diabetes than non-Hispanic whites and they tend to experience more severe complications. Research shows that although self-management is poor among ethnic minorities, it is even more so among Hispanics. The “Taking Ownership of Your Diabetes” (TOYD) program has been shown to be successful in helping individuals manage their diabetes. However, no work has been conducted with Hispanic audiences in Kentucky. TOYD program allows individuals to modify lifestyle risks and solve problems related to diabetes management. The program was translated from English to Spanish. Hispanics males and females between ages 19 to 75 years with type 2 diabetes were invited to participate in the study. A one group pretest-posttest design with a six-month follow-up was used in this study. McNemar tests, a paired t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Rank Tests were used for appropriate variables. This pilot study was shown to be effective in helping participants to move through the Stages of Change. This pilot study lasted for three weeks and it was observed that most of these gains were lost at the six-month follow-up time frame. It seems that interventions need to be of longer duration and that follow-up contact must be made with participants