Lessons learned from urban Latinas with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

This study focused on Latinas (female Hispanics) with Type 2 diabetes because this disease has a high prevalence and incidence among this population and cultural norms may affect women's experiences with diabetes. The study used a descriptive phenomenology design with a purposive sample of 13 Latina volunteers recruited from a local community health center in southern New England. Data were collected via interviews in English or Spanish. Six themes emerged from the analysis: stress as a cause and effect; too little, too late; profound sadness, diabetic anger, and loss of control; obsession with diet; life under a magnifying glass; and religion as a lifeline. Further research should pursue development of a culturally relevant approach to the health care management of Latinos.