Cultural Considerations for the Adaptation of a Diabetes Self-Management Education Program in Cotonou, Benin

Lessons Learned from a Qualitative Study

Bibliographic Data

ID15480475
AuthorsHalimatou Alaofè (0000-0002-3011-9673, University of Arizona, corresponding author), Sarah Yeo (0000-0001-5814-4187, University of Arizona), Abidemi Okechukwu (0000-0002-0854-9888, University of Arizona), Priscilla Magrath (0000-0001-8526-458X, University of Arizona), W A Hounkpatin (0000-0002-2902-8248, Université d'Abomey-Calavi), John Ehiri (University of Arizona), Cecilia Rosales (0000-0002-1576-9272, University of Arizona)
Year2021
Volume18
Issue16
Pages8376-8376
Publication date2021-08-07
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1661-7827 • E-ISSN: 1660-4601
PublisherMultidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (PUBLISHER • CH)
DOI10.3390/ijerph18168376
PMID34444125
OpenAlexW3188929285
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited37

Background : Type 2 diabetes (T2D) poses a disproportionate burden on Benin, West Africa. However, no diabetes intervention has yet been developed for Benin's contexts. This study aimed to explore specific cultural beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, and environmental factors to help adapt a diabetes self-management program to patients with T2D from Cotonou, in southern Benin. Methods : Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions (FDGs) involving 32 patients with T2D, 16 academic partners, and 12 community partners. The FDGs were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim from French to English, and then analyzed thematically with MAXQDA 2020. Results : Healthy food was challenging to obtain due to costs, seasonality, and distance from markets. Other issues discussed were fruits and vegetables as commodities for the poor, perceptions and stigmas surrounding the disease, and the financial burden of medical equipment and treatment. Information about local food selections and recipes as well as social support, particularly for physical activity, were identified, among other needs. When adapting the curriculum, gender dynamics and spirituality were suggested. Conclusions : The study demonstrates the need for culturally sensitive interventions and a motivation-based approach to health (spiritual and emotional support). It also lays the groundwork for addressing T2D contextually in Benin and similar sub-Saharan African countries

Alternative medicine · Business · Curriculum · Focus group · Intervention (counseling · Medical education · Pedagogy · Psychological intervention · Qualitative research · Social science · Sociology · Spirituality · Chronic Disease Management Strategies · Diabetes Management and Education · Diabetes, Cardiovascular Risks, and Lipoproteins · Medicine · Nursing · Psychology · Gerontology · Marketing

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