Complementary and Alternative Medicine use by Native Hawaiians and Part-Hawaiians with Type 2 Diabetes: A Feasibility Study.

Abstract

In Hawai'i, type 2 diabetes is prevalent among Native Hawaiians and thus is a burden to their well-being, since there is an increased risk for health complications such as cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and neuropathy. The terms “Native or Part Hawaiian” in this study refers to individuals who self identified one as their racial category. Individuals with type 2 diabetes should implement recommended daily self-management strategies to promote better health outcomes and possibly delay associated complications. The concept of self-management is found in chronic illness and Native Hawaiian health literature. The literature reveals that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) serves to improve well-being through culturally accepted health and lifestyle practices. This study scrutinizes the process of recruiting and interviewing Native Hawaiians and Part Hawaiians with type 2 diabetes complication of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and explores reasons these individuals use complementary and alternative medicine. A quantitative research method is conducted using two survey instruments: the CAM use survey and the SF-36 survey to assess reasons for CAM use, perceived general health, and bodily pain. A descriptive statistical analysis is performed to identify frequency data in a sample of 21 Native Hawaiians with DPN. The frequency data reveal factors that contribute to the use of CAM for diabetic peripheral neuropathy self-management, such as education, income, marital status, and religious beliefs. Knowledge and assessment of complementary and alternative medicine use may assist health care professionals in treating and caring for Native Hawaiians and Part Hawaiians with type 2 diabetes. Keywords: Native Hawaiian, type 2 diabetes, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, CAM