Study examining the relationship between socio-cultural determinants and diabetes mellitus in Burkina Faso

Type of artical: Original Research Article

Section: Care barriers Cultural assessment Cultural determinants Diabetes Rural Burkina Faso

Background & objectives: Cultural beliefs, traditional behaviors, and social factors are significant elements that influence health and illness outcomes. This also applies to chronic conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus, which necessitates ongoing management. Objective of this study was to comprehend the wider socio-cultural context as crucial background knowledge for providing good care to individuals with diabetes.

Methods: We conducted interviews with 25 individuals diagnosed with diabetes using the ‘Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue’.

Results: The signs of Diabetes do not typically appear early, leading to their frequent disregard until they begin to significantly disrupt an individual’s daily life. Adhering to the dietary recommendations proved to be the most challenging aspect of managing diabetes, primarily due to cultural obstacles. It is advisable to do a cultural assessment at the initial assessment in order to identify any cultural concerns related to care. This will help in developing interventions that are culturally relevant and acceptable, and also in evaluating their effectiveness.

Conclusions: Cultural values, beliefs, practices, and family patterns can serve as indicators for designing diabetes treatment strategies. The cultural assessment should prioritize factors that are pertinent to the presenting issue, essential intervention, and collaborative evaluation.