Managing Type 2 Diabetes: Beliefs and Daily Practices in First Generation Asian Indians in the United States

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes management and control remain poor in Asian Indians (AI) and is influenced by personal beliefs and cultural practices. Since AIs have a high prevalence of diabetes and are more likely develop complications earlier than any other ethnic group, understanding their beliefs and practices of diabetes management is essential. The purpose of this study was to examine and understand beliefs and practices about diabetes self-management in first-generation AI Hindus and Sikhs. METHOD: Interpretative phenomenology was used to interview 12 first generation AI participants with type 2 diabetes to elicit beliefs and daily self-management practices of diabetes. Interpretative and thematic analysis were completed. RESULTS: Diabetes self-management was a balancing act influenced by Ayurvedic principles, allopathy and dietary practices; gender roles, insufficient knowledge and culturally inappropriate diabetes education. DISCUSSION: Culturally appropriate strategies that incorporate Ayurvedic principles, dietary practices, gender roles should be developed to improve diabetes management.