Management of Diabetes
Hi, I’m Mehr Aulakh. I’m an undergraduate at UC Berkeley studying Microbial Biology. This blog post focuses on the resources and culturally sensitive management of diabetes in the South Asian diaspora, more specifically the Punjabi Community.
Prevalence
Diabetes, particularly Type 2, is a significant health concern within South Asian individuals, within certain ethnic groups such as the Punjabi community the risks are noticeably higher. The condition puts a huge burden on the health of the individuals affected as well as health systems and families.
Education
To combat this customized education and support programs are essential to managing and preventing diabetes for Punjabi people. Through efforts like the Know Diabetes initiative, which provides resources about diabetes in multiple languages including Punjabi, individuals can become educated on the importance of dietary management, exercise, and regular healthcare check-ups. Other efforts like the Diabetes for South Asians program specifically tailor diabetes management to cultural practices, traditional cooking methods, and health practices for easy and healthy integration into one’s daily life. By working with individuals in ways that support their lifestyles rather than completely changing them, it is more likely to be adopted and sustained by the members of the community. SADEE SMILE is a program that targets Punjabi communities and focuses on self-management education, healthy eating, and managing medication, often conducted in areas with significant Punjabi populations.
These are examples of culturally sensitive health interventions that serve to address the needs of ethnically diverse populations more effectively.
Importance
This is especially important for Punjabis who are not only genetic disposition inclined to develop diabetes and other chronic diseases, but also lifestyle factors. Diets can be rich in unhealthy carbohydrates and fats for taste and cultural significance. Often, social stigmas around health are also abundant in the community. It is crucial to discuss the problem to overcome these barriers while maintaining the beauty of the culture.
Resources
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2017-11-diabetes-self-management-south-asian-population.html
