Diabetes Educ. 1994 Jul-Aug; 20(4): 303-6.

Perceptions of the importance placed on religion and folk medicine by non-Mexican-American Hispanic adults with diabetes.

ZaldÃvar A, Smolowitz J.

The high incidence of diabetes and diabetes-related complications in Hispanic adults in the United States continues to be of concern among healthcare providers. The underutilization of screening services and early treatment centers by Hispanic adults seems to contribute to the problem. This survey examined whether religious, spiritual, and folk medicine beliefs play a role in the participants' view of diabetes and treatment choices. One hundred four non-Mexican-American Hispanic adults with diabetes were surveyed using a self-report questionnaire. Results showed that 78% of patients believed they had diabetes because it was God's will; 17% of patients reported using herbs to treat their diabetes. This survey demonstrates the importance of addressing religion and spirituality when dealing with the issues of disease and health in this population.