“We Eat Without Thinking: We Just Eat, Eat, Eat” – A Thematic Exploration of Cultural Practices of Ethnically Diverse Youth and Their Parents Who Are at Risk for Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

ABSTRACT Purpose Cultural beliefs and practices influence management of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in youth and their parents, and have been minimally explored, limiting our understanding and implementation of preventative healthcare. An enhanced evidence base may inform comprehensive, effective community health nursing (CHN). Thus, the purpose of this research was to explore the influence of youths’ and their parents’ understandings of cultural practices on risk for prediabetes and T2D. Design A secondary thematic analysis was conducted. Qualitative data were obtained from semi-structured interviews with 24 participants who were purposefully recruited from two mid-western Canadian high schools. Findings Three themes and one subtheme were developed including: 1) Food Culture and related subtheme, Acculturation to New Food Choices; 2) Exercise Culture: Adapting Physical Activity in a New Country; and, 3) Risk Perception of the Effects of T2D on Loved Ones: Behavior Modifications and Motivation. Cultural practices and acculturation to food such as dietary choices, preparation, large portions, different dietary staples, food availability, and food gathering patterns influenced health behaviors. Similarly, changes in exercise patterns including adapting to Western video game culture, weather in Canada, and the new way of life emerged as important factors that impacted health. Participants who perceived a familial risk of diabetes identified behavior modifications such as regular diabetes screening, nutrition counseling, healthier food choices, smaller food portions, and an increase in physical activity as strategies to reduce risk of prediabetes and diabetes. Conclusions There is a critical need for research aimed at prediabetes and T2D prevention, and intervention programs targeting ethnically diverse groups where prediabetes and T2D is most prevalent. Clinical Evidence Community health nurses are at the core of implementing and supporting disease prevention and, therefore, may consider the findings from this research to develop family-focused, intergenerational, and culturally-based interventions.