Aboriginal young people's experiences of type 2 diabetes diagnosis, management and support: A qualitative study in the Kimberley region of Western Australia

Abstract

Issues AddressedIn Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in remote settings are most‐affected by young onset type 2 diabetes (T2D). It is necessary to understand young people's experiences, including factors impacting on self‐management, to improve models of care.MethodsA phenomenological methodology underpinned this qualitative study in Western Australia's Kimberley region. Two Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services supported recruitment of seven Aboriginal young people aged 12–24 with T2D, who participated in interviews. A carer and health professional of one young person in each site were also interviewed and relevant medical record data reviewed to assist with triangulation of data. De‐identified transcripts were inductively coded and a coding structure developed with oversight by a Kimberley Aboriginal researcher.ResultsYoung people reported varied experiences and emotions relating to a T2D diagnosis. Most recounted this was upsetting and some reported current negative impact on emotional wellbeing. Challenges with understanding and managing diabetes were highlighted, particularly regarding healthy eating, physical activity and medication. Family are a prominent source of self‐management support, with the intergenerational impact of diabetes being evident for each participant. Positive relationships with health professionals, entailing continuity of care, were valued.ConclusionsThere are significant emotional and medical challenges for young people with T2D and their families. Recommendations from this work will contribute to the development of local resources and initiatives to improve diabetes‐related support.So What?Alongside broader efforts to support good health at the societal level, enhanced health education and family‐oriented support structures including Aboriginal clinical staff for young people with T2D are needed.