Enhancing diabetes education and self-management in South Asian populations in the UK.

Abstract

The South Asian population in the UK is at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. This article considers the cultural beliefs that South Asian patients with diabetes may have about their condition, and discusses the challenges that healthcare practitioners may encounter when providing care for this patient group. It offers practical advice on how to enhance the care and treatment of these patients, including the importance of providing culturally sensitive guidance. There may be particular risks and health effects for Muslim patients with diabetes who choose to fast during Ramadan. The principal author introduced a 'pre-Ramadan assessment' initiative in their GP surgery in Tower Hamlets, London, which aimed to provide education on the risks associated with fasting and to improve patients' self-management of their condition, thus reducing potential health complications.