Nineteenth International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

Abstract

Type Two Diabetes (T2D) is a global epidemic, with increased prevalence among Sudanese adults residing in Western developed nations. Australia’s diabetes policy emphasises self-management, but provides little insight into how this policy might apply to the many immigrant and refugee communities that make up Australia’s diverse population. The primary aim of this study is to explore the knowledge and perceptions around management of T2D among Sudanese adults with T2D living in Victoria, Australia. This qualitative study utilises a constructionist approach. Sudanese adults who self-identified as having T2D were recruited from the community. A face-to-face semi-structured interview was conducted with each participant. Thematic analyses were performed on the data. Results: 12 participants were included in the study. All participants were engaged in some form of self-management for their T2D. Through analysis of the data, several barriers to and enablers of optimal self-management of T2D were identified. Barriers included lack of knowledge on management and possible disease complications, the impact of language in communication, the perceived burden of self-management, incorporating traditional dietary practices in self-management, as well as familial and social obligations. Enablers included positive relationships with health professionals, having support networks, being involved in religious practice, and the use of traditional remedies. The findings highlight the need for Australia’s healthcare governance structures to prioritise culturally appropriate provision of health services and resources for Sudanese patients with T2D. These findings may be generalisable to other minority ethnic groups from migrant and refugee backgrounds in Australia and elsewhere.