Effect of Family Support and Education on Diabetes Self Management in Cuban Americans

Abstract

Effect of family support and education level on diabetes self management in Cuban Americans with type 2 diabetes was studied (n=183). Diabetes self‐management (DSM) score was calculated using 21 questions from questionnaire in which a higher score reflected better diabetes management. Family support score was calculated using questions about familys’ acceptance of patients’ condition and their support in DSM. Correlations were run for the variables DSM, family support score and education. In Cuban Americans the correlation between DSM and family support was statistically significant (r=.281, p<0.001). Data indicates that, in Cuban Americans, DSM is positively influenced by family support and education. DSM was regressed with family support score and educational levels. Family support (standardized β=.153, p=0.052) and educational levels (standardized β=.265, p=0.001) were significant in the model and explained 9.6% of the variation in DSM scores (Adjusted r2 =9.6). Hence its implications would be to involve family of the patient in type 2 diabetes self management in this Hispanic sub‐group, Cuban Americans. The better the family support, the better the diabetes management outcomes. Supported by a grant from NIH/SCORE.Grant Funding Source: NIH/SCORE