Culturally sensitive diabetes education supporting ethnic minorities with type 2 diabetes

Abstract Background Ethnic minorities of non-Western origin are at higher risk of type 2 diabetes and diabetes complications, compared to the general population. Diabetes education programmes are essential to support people with diabetes to initiate and sustain behaviours needed to manage their condition throughout their lives. However, shaping diabetes education that provide culturally sensitive education that is acceptable to and supports diabetes self-management among members of ethnic minorities is needed. Objectives In this study, we develop and evaluate a culturally sensitive diabetes education programme in a community health setting, focusing on Arabic, Urdu or Turkish languages (n = 100). The programme aims to support ethnic minorities with type 2 diabetes in making health-promoting decisions about their care. Also, it will produce knowledge about methods and tools to improve content and format, and about the skills of those delivering the education. Using design-based research, the development comprised three phases: needs assessment, co-creation and testing. The target groups were actively involved in all phases. Results The needs assessment was based on fieldwork, workshops and interviews with the target groups and educators. Data showed that self-blame and learned helplessness undermined health-promoting decisions in the target groups. Also, a lack of clear roles between educators and peer educators, and a limited focus on goal setting in the educational setting was observed. The needs assessment informed the development of a 6 week group-based programme, supported by 11 dialogue tools. Preliminary findings show a high level of programme acceptability and participation as well as engagement in diabetes and care in the target groups. Conclusions By actively involving the target groups, health care professionals and as well as health services directly engaged with the target group, the outcomes of the programme are likely to be relevant to individuals and institutions. Key messages This study gives voice to ethnic minorities with type 2 diabetes through the co-creation of a diabetes education programme aiming to support health-promoting decisions. Innovative and involving methods are highly relevant to develop acceptable and effective diabetes education programmes targeting ethnic minority groups.