Exploring the Odds of Diabetes and Physical Activity as an Effect Modifier in the Kohala Research Project: A Multi-Ethnic Secondary Data Analysis of a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects people globally. With the increasing odds of diabetes and it becoming the 7th leading cause of death, it is important to see what lifestyle choices that can be modified to live a healthier life. Objective: This project looks at the odds of developing diabetes in terms of physical activity amongst the following ethnic groups in Kohala, Hawaii: Caucasian, Filipino, Hawaiian or Part Hawaiian, and Japanese. Methods: This is a secondary data analysis of a cross-sectional study from the Kohala Research Project in which data was collected between 1997-2000. Men and non-pregnant women aged 18 years or older were eligible to participate in the study where blood samples were acquired and an intensive questionnaire was given. Results: It was found that physical activity is protective for Caucasians, Filipinos, and Hawaiian/Part Hawaiians, but it had an increased odds of developing diabetes for Japanese.