Diabetes outcomes and practices: comparison of African Americans and Caucasians

When compared to Caucasians, diabetes mellitus and its complications are more prevalent among African Americans. Locus of control and social support were suggested as correlates of diabetes outcomes and health care practices that might have clinical implications. A sample of 24 African Americans and 80 Caucasians with Type II diabetes completed questionnaires and gave venous blood specimens. African Americans had significantly higher glycohemoglobin values (p = .049) and BMI values (p = .048). African Americans also took fewer doses of medication (p = .046) and tested their blood glucose less frequently (p = .062). Correlation patterns for the two groups differed as well. Social support variables were more often related to health care practices and outcomes for African Americans than for Caucasians. The findings indicate that nursing interventions resulting in increased social support could be especially effective for African Americans with Type II diabetes.