This study explores the meaning of health among Iranian women with diabetes using hermeneutic phenomenology
based on Van Manen’s approach. A total of 19 women with diabetes who were referred to the
Diabetes Center of Imam Khomeini hospital in Ardabil, Iran were recruited using a purposive sampling
method. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Each interview was transcribed verbatim and
analyzed simultaneously. Data analysis led to the emergence of five main themes: a God-centered life, health
as a precious possession, health as wellbeing, independence, and acceptance. Patients often described coping
with their illnesses and pursuing lifestyle changes by applying their spiritual and religious beliefs.The findings
of this study can be used by healthcare teams to revise their opinions about patients with diabetes according
to the culture of their patients
