49 - Diabetes Prevention From the Perspective of South Asian Adolescents: A Photovoice Project

Abstract

Evidence suggests there is an increasing prevalence of diabetes among South Asian (SA) adolescents reaching epidemic proportions due to their unique genetic risk profile. This study examined the views of SA adolescents on diabetes prevention and perceived challenges to adopt healthy behaviours in their environment. Photovoice methodology was used to engage adolescents in capturing images of their environment that led to critical dialogue and reflexive thinking. Fifteen SA adolescents from the South Asian Adolescent Diabetes Awareness Program (SAADAP) were trained on the use of photography and guided by research questions, while taking 10 photographs during a 3-week period. Three focus groups were conducted using the SHOWed technique to enable participants to share and discuss their photographs. Thematic analysis of the focus group transcripts was conducted based on the socioecological framework to identify individual, interpersonal, organizational, community and policy level factors influencing diabetes prevention. The analysis revealed various socioecological contributors at the individual (e.g. health literacy), interpersonal (e.g. family and peer networks), organizational (e.g. school infrastructure), community (e.g. fast food accessibility) and policy (e.g. food insecurity) levels. Additional themes emerged that impacted participants’ ability to engage in preventive care, including academic stress and perceived lack of nutrition of SA foods. Future youth diabetes prevention programs must consider the family and school unit, incorporating education and resources for both parents and adolescents. Students should be involved with school health initiatives and consulted when programs are being developed and implemented.