Date of Doctor of Nursing Practice Project Completion
Spring 1-5-2025
Faculty Advisor
Deborah McCrea
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this project was to create a culturally sensitive dietary program template to serve as a guide to offer healthier food alternatives to reduce the incidence of type 2 diabetes while not compromising on their Hispanic heritage.
BACKGROUND This project was implemented in a South Texas border community which has nearly twice the national average of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, which presents a significant public health challenge.
METHODOLOGY The project followed the Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle and incorporated the Health Belief Model. A dietary pamphlet featuring local culturally relevant food options was developed. The material was presented at two health fairs hosted by a local health initiative, with bilingual educational scripts to enhance engagement. A questionnaire assessed five key metrics: belief in diet’s role, knowledge gained, behavioral intentions, accessibility of recommended foods, and cultural relevance. Chi-Square tests analyzed differences across demographic groups.
RESULTS Out of 130 survey respondents, 100% reported learning something new about healthier food choices. Belief in diet’s impact on diabetes prevention significantly differed by demographic group (p=0.0007), as did intentions to adopt healthier food choices (p=0.025). However, food accessibility was not a significant barrier (p = 0.93), and 100% of participants affirmed the program’s cultural relevance.
IMPLICATIONS Findings support the effectiveness of culturally tailored dietary interventions in promoting diabetes prevention. The program demonstrated the importance of culturally competent education in increasing health knowledge and influencing behavior change. Future efforts should include a longitudinal follow-up to assess sustained behavioral change.
Keywords
diabetes, dietary prevention, cultural foods, type 2 diabetes, culturally relevant, hispanic, latino, diet, nutrition, diabetes prevention
Recommended Citation
Noor, Siddiqua, "Dietary Program for the Reduction of Type 2 Diabetes Prevalence in a South Texas Border Region" (2025). Doctor of Nursing Practice Final Project Abstract. 70.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dnp_abstract/70