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Diabetes definitely challenges the health belief systems in the Latino population. At the individual level,
depending on the age, gender and psychological structure, and of course the acculturation level, they
may have acceptance or rejection of certain lifestyle modifications including diet and physical activity
when facing diabetes.
At the family level, the individual often has to interact on different levels. Many Latinos have to face the
challenge of dealing with background, personal belief and some traditions. The role of the community
is also very important in terms of the symptoms and adherence to treatment in diabetes.
There are several very strong cultural structures that influence members of the Latino population,
especially those who are in the low and intermediate stages of acculturation.
Machismo – a group of common behaviors where the leading role is always taken by the male in the
family. It doesn't take into account any other opinion. Machismo is still a very ingrained concept in
Latino culture.
Familismo – Family plays a very important role when deciding health outcomes, attitudes and even
important decisions in terms of usual care, medications, insulin and other prescriptions. The family
decides for the individual, even when the outcome must be considered in terms of life or death.
Fatalismo – Fatalism. Some believe that disease, for instance that diabetes, is a punishment. They did
something wrong in the past and feel they deserve to have the condition.
These influences cannot be taken lightly, which is why it is often necessary to include the entire family
and even leading members of the community in discussions regarding diabetes management and
treatment.
When dealing with patients with diabetes in the Latino community it is important to have a team
approach. The team should include health care professionals, community and family members. Very
often Hispanic patients demonstrate better treatment and compliance when physicians:
- Show a kind, respectful attitude
- Explain their condition in straightforward language
- Facilitate active learning with diabetes education classes in Spanish
- Provide culturally appropriate materials in Spanish
- Explain the benefits of therapy
- Help reduce anxiety regarding the use of insulin.
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