Sophie Grosskopf
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Kevin Joiner
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Dept of Health Behavior and Biological Sciences / Nursing
Program:
Authors: Sophie Grosskopf, Kevin Joiner
Session: Session 5: 2:40 pm – 3:30 pm
Poster: 39
Abstract
Prediabetes is a serious health condition that influences approximately 96 million adults in America, with many not even knowing they have it. There is a very high risk of developing type 2 diabetes when one has prediabetes. Participation in ‘The Diabetes Prevention Program’ has proven to be extremely successful in decreasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, proving its effectiveness and value. However, only close to 3% of this population participate. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the experiences of Latino adults in the United States in their diagnosis of prediabetes and enrollment in the National Diabetes Prevention Program. This data will be used to spread awareness for the National Diabetes Prevention Program. A qualitative research design was used. A group of Latino adults with prediabetes living in the United States were interviewed, if they had participated in the National Diabetes Prevention Program, and were asked about their experience. Interviews were conducted in Spanish and transcribed into English. Participants’ responses fit generally under three themes: diagnosis of prediabetes, the National Diabetes Prevention Program’s persistence in wanting to better the participants, and the overall encouraging and supportive community that was fostered. Participants shared their emotional reactions upon being diagnosed with prediabetes. Generally, participants had misconceptions about prediabetes and were unaware of the National Diabetes Prevention Program, which is why they did not join sooner. They pointed out that the National Diabetes Prevention Program was tailored to their cultural and linguistic needs which was extremely helpful. Participants emphasized the persistence of the National Diabetes Prevention Program in enforcing a healthy lifestyle among their group. They also spoke about how their group uplifted one another, fostering an extremely positive and motivating environment for themselves to live healthy lifestyles.
