"I Am the Last Priority": Factors Influencing Diabetes Management Among South Asian Caregivers in Peel Region, Ontario

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we aimed to identify sociocultural and systemic factors influencing diabetes management among South Asian (SA) caregivers in Peel Region, Ontario.

Methods: Twenty-one semistructured interviews were conducted with SA caregivers using a qualitative descriptive design. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and intersectionality analysis.

Results: Themes identified included 1) prioritizing family caregiving over diabetes self-management; 2) labour market impacts on diabetes self-management; and 3) challenges navigating Canadian health and social service systems. SA caregivers described social, economic, and systemic challenges impacting type 2 diabetes management. Systemic factors influencing diabetes management included discrimination and inequities in labour policies and lack of social and health resources funding. Recommendations by caregivers included whole-family, community-based, culturally tailored approaches to diabetes prevention and management strategies.

Conclusions: Providing support with system navigation, encouraging family-based approaches, and addressing the social determinants of health could be beneficial for supporting SA families with diabetes management and prevention.

Keywords: South Asian; barrières systémiques; community health; diabète de type 2; déterminants sociaux de la santé; population sud-asiatique; santé communautaire; social determinants of health; systemic barriers; type 2 diabetes.