Predictors of Successful Diabetes Management in Low-Income Hispanic People

The specific aim of this predictive, correlational study was to test a culturally sensitive diabetes-specific health protection model to determine predictors of successful diabetes management in a newly diagnosed, type 2, low-income Hispanic population. Using a research-based Hispanic Health Protection Model (HHPM) as a framework, 240 adult participants with low levels of acculturation, strong beliefs about illness attribution and control of health, and low literacy levels were interviewed in a three-phase process over 4 to 6 months. The data analysis resulted in support of the HHPM based on relationships between 11 variables in four partial structural equation models, including lifestyle profile, acculturation, health beliefs, professional and social support, self-efficacy, diabetes knowledge, quality of life (self-satisfaction and impact of diabetes), and changes in hemoglobin(a1c) and body mass index. The study established carefully translated measures that held up to strong psychometric criteria. There was support for the HHPM for this population, and the results suggest future intervention with strengthening enablers, such as professional support and diabetes self-efficacy, in relation to this group's health beliefs.