Diabetes self-management in the migrant Latino population

This article will present an in-depth exploration and synthesis of current literature that informs nursing knowledge of diabetes self-management for the migrant Latino population. Extensive research in diabetes care has been conducted, however, there is a significant knowledge gap related to the factors that influence the achievement of glycemic control and self-management practices of the Latino population. Based on well-documented disparities in complications and health outcomes among Latinos when compared with White Americans, there is sufficient evidence to question whether traditional White beliefs about self-management are successful or appropriate for the Latino population in general and migrants specifically. Traditional models view self-management as an individual's responsibility. Whether this view is congruent with the collectivist cultural tradition held by many Latinos is unclear. Equally unclear is the degree to which using traditional models of self-management in teaching about managing type 2 diabetes influences health outcomes in this population. Culturally congruent care and nursing interventions involve much more than an understanding of language and dietary preferences.