Diabetes is in part controlled with diet and nutritional counseling. how can cultural or regional influences affect the patient’s health and management of diabetes? for example, a southern african-american, a muslim immigrant from pakistan, a vegetarian, a single twenty year old, etc. all of these patient cultural, religious, or lifestyle choices can impact their diabetes and overall health. how can a ma provide effective patient care while considering these influences?

Diabetes affects all ages from every population. Genetics, socio-economic status and lifestyle are major players in acquiring and managing Diabetes. Understanding the underpinning cultural diversities is important in planning healthcare for diabetes patients because of these predisposing and precipitating factors that are different in every culture. To add, there is a disproportionate  incidence and prevalence of both diabetes and diabetes-related complications among ethnic minorities. Both prevention and management of diabetes require that people engage in multiple healthy behaviors involving diet, physical activity ad other behaviors shaped by culture.

Based on studies,  Southern African Americans are more likely to develop high blood pressure and high blood sugar, and to fail monitoring glucose control   and checking cholesterol. This is in part because of poor eating habits and inaccessible diabetes recommended care in low socio-economic groups. A Muslim Pakistani immigrant may likewise find medical diabetes care inaccessible. He may also have difficulty with food choices as the markets are likely to offer food and services that aren't fitting to his preference. A vegetarian may have to find markets with plant-based sources of vitamins and minerals that may be inaccessible and expensive. 20-year olds are less likely comply with diet and blood monitoring because peer pressure and inconvenience.

Patients need to learn behavior skills that are individualized are necessary to optimize quality of life. It is fundamental  for the MA to use effective communication. The MA should possess cultural sensitivity and  cultural competence to deliver health information unique to the patient ,  cultural humility, ethnicity and racial identity to deliver unbiased care.