Filipino Americans’ Social and Cultural Experiences of Type 2 Diabetes Management: Cultural Paradox, Ownership, and Success Definition

Abstract

Background: Although type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) disproportionately affects Filipino Americans, they have not received much attention in the literature. Focusing on how Filipino Americans’ social and cultural contextual experiences affect their self-management is critical. This study examined T2DM self-management among Filipino Americans by describing their sociocultural experiences, strategies, and significance of self-management. Method: An interpretive descriptive qualitative design was used. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The study followed the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Results: Filipino Americans ( n = 19) with T2DM were interviewed. Three themes emerged: (a) cultural paradox of being Filipino American, (b) movement from invisibility to ownership of T2DM, and (c) definition of successful management of T2DM. Conclusion: Results contribute to a greater understanding of Filipino Americans’ T2DM self-management experiences. Implications include the provision of culturally congruent health care, being aware of Filipino Americans’ sociocultural experiences, and involvement of family/community.