Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a serious health problem in Asian-American
communities, including the Korean American immigrants (KAI), one of the most
underserved and understudied minority populations in the US. More than 50% of
KAI have no health insurance and rarely receive routine checkups. As a result, KAI
with asymptomatic chronic diseases, such as DM, go undiagnosed and
inadequately treated. These health risks are further compounded by low health
literacy levels.
KAIs with type 2 DM urgently need effective interventions that help them achieve
better glycemic control and restore their self-confidence with regard to diabetic
management.
Methods: To address this critical need within the KAI community, Dr. Kim’s research
team designed and executed a NIH funded translational study trial (NIDDK R18) of
a community-based glucose control intervention program for Korean American
immigrants (KAI) with type-2 diabetes mellitus (DM). This project tests the
effectiveness of a multifaceted DM management program (STOP-DM) with regard to
the cultural and social needs of KAI with type 2 DM. This evaluation includes data
analysis, interpretations, and dissemination of the findings with regard to cultural
tailoring and health literacy enhancement of the intervention.
Findings: Data analysis is expected to support the belief that the self-help aspect
and tailoring strategies significantly improve intervention outcomes by empowering
patients through enhanced knowledge of DM and diet, utilizing available technology
to develop the ability to self –monitor their glucose control status, facilitating better
communication with their health care providers, and enhancing health literacy and
general problem-solving skills.NursingPublic Healt
