AUTHOR=Salazar-Collier Cindy Lynn , Reininger Belinda M. , Wilkinson Anna V. , Kelder Steven H. 

TITLE=Exploration of Fatalism and Religiosity by Gender and Varying Levels of Engagement Among Mexican-American Adults of a Type 2 Diabetes Management Program

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Public Health

VOLUME=9

YEAR=2021

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2021.652202

DOI=10.3389/fpubh.2021.652202

ISSN=2296-2565

ABSTRACT=<p><bold>Objectives:</bold> Purpose of study is to explore the roles religiosity and fatalistic beliefs play in diabetes management among newly, currently, and long-term enrolled Mexican-American participants in a Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) chronic care management program.</p><p><bold>Methods:</bold> In 2017, study participants (<italic>n</italic> = 15) completed a semi-structured interview in their preferred language (English or Spanish). Sample was stratified by amount of time individual had been enrolled as a participant of the Salud y Vida program: newly, currently, or long-term. Interviews assessed religious beliefs, beliefs concerning the cause(s) of diabetes, perceived relationship between religiosity and fatalistic beliefs with T2DM management, and the appropriateness of discussing such topics with a health professional. Interview responses were analyzed using ATLAS.ti 8.</p><p><bold>Results:</bold> Themes identified included: perceived autonomy over diabetes prognosis, motivators for self-care, discussions of personal beliefs in the healthcare setting, and the church's role in diabetes management.</p><p><bold>Conclusions:</bold> Among this sample, religiosity and religious fatalism played a complex role in coping with and managing diabetes. Long-term enrolled and male participants expressed beliefs of divine control over health, and a connection between religiosity and health behavior. Long-term enrolled participants felt religious and fatalistic beliefs may be suitable and beneficial to discuss in the healthcare setting.</p>