Evidence-based treatment for the Hispanic diabetic patient include the following medications: pioglitazone hydrochloride (a thiazolidinedione, 30 mg/d); irbesartan (an angiotensin receptor blocker, 150 mg/d titrated to 300 mg/d); hydrochlorothiazide (an antikaliuretic agent, 12.5 mg/d); and aspirin (325 mg/d).

Therapy also includes a low-protein diet and walking program.  Taking note of cultural considerations, the evidence-based strategies that take into account blood pressure, creatinine clearance rate, and urine albumin level while improving peripheral vascular disease and diabetic peripheral neuropathy, must include lifestyle changes.  Diet, lifestyle modification and mental attitude are key factors in caring for the Hispanic diabetic patient.

Hispanics are more likely than the general population to develop diabetes; therefore, nutrition intervention is important for the Hispanic patient in managing existing diabetes, and preventing, or at least slowing, the rate of development of diabetes complications. It is, therefore, important at all levels of diabetes prevention.  Lifestyle changes are also an integral component of diabetes promotion education.  Evidence-based recommendations are based on the American Diabetes Association and offer guidelines to prevent overweight and obesity since they are closely linked to diabetes and particular attention is paid to medication management.

References

Crawford, U., & Hyatt, B. (2017).  Evidence-based strategies to address chronic conditions in the Hispanic community. American Journal of Public Health; 25(12): 157-169.

Urteaga, I.; Olef, Y. (2016). Hispanics and diabetes: Risks and prevention. Journal of Community Health; 19(21): 129-138.