Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions about risk of type 2 diabetes of parents and children with family history of type 2 diabetes

Literature has indicated that there is an increased incidence of type 2 diabetes among minority populations. This study examined the knowledge of diabetes, diabetes related risk factors, and prevention practices for reducing the development of type 2 diabetes in African American and Hispanic children and parents with a family history of the disease. Data were used from a larger study on children and parents at risk for developing type 2 diabetes conducted at the Children's Nutrition Research Center (CNRC). Data were collected from 39 parents and 21 matching children. Participants answered questions on knowledge of diabetes, diabetes related risk factors, and prevention practices for developing diabetes. The answers were coded for each parent and child interview. There was no statistically significant difference between African American and Hispanic parents and children's knowledge of diabetes, diabetes related risk factors, and prevention practices. However, the results did indicate a lack of knowledge about type 2 diabetes, diabetes related risk factors, and prevention methods among African Americans and Hispanics with a family history of the disease. The need for culturally appropriate assessment and prevention models provides a challenging new area for research and clinical practice for registered dietitians.