Living With Diabetes: Perceptions of Hispanic Migrant Farmworkers

Abstract

This study1 focuses on Hispanic migrant farmworkers and their perceptions of living with diabetes. A phenomenological design was utilized with a sample of 12 participants recruited from 2 local migrant health centers. The interview guide was based on questions from Kleinman's Explanatory Model. Data were explored with regard to etiology, onset of symptoms, pathophysiology, and course of illness. Six themes emerged from the analysis: usualness of diabetes, causes of diabetes, symptoms prior to the diagnosis of diabetes, understanding the chronicity of diabetes, impact of diabetes on daily life, and fear of long-term complications related to diabetes. Based on the analysis of the interviews, the individuals' explanations of this chronic disease are compiled within their own perceptions and cultural beliefs. The results of this study can be utilized by providers to adapt their health care and education methods to better meet the needs of this mobile population. In the Hispanic migrant farmworker population, further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of living with diabetes on a daily basis.