Dietary challenges of managing type 2 diabetes in African-American women

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the challenge of self-management of diet in African-American women living with type 2 diabetes. Specifically, the women were asked to talk about dietary challenges of managing diabetes in the context of their personal lifestyle factors, such as daily routines, family responsibilities, and individual needs. Using a phenomenological approach, a descriptive, exploratory design was implemented using four facilitated focus groups. A convenience sample of 24 African-American women was recruited from a family practice center in the midwest. Data from each of the four focus groups were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Themes were compared and contrasted within and across each of the four focus groups until consensus was reached. Four themes were identified: frequent difficulties in changing dietary habits, need for individual guidance, support, and misinformation gaps. Overall, the participants expressed the need for more attention to the personal lifestyle factors they viewed as obstacles to managing diabetes.