Family History of Diabetes and Its Impact on Health Care and Patient Behavior
Author Information
Author(s): Amy I. Zlot, Mary Pat Bland, Kerry Silvey, Beth Epstein, Richard F. Leman, Beverly Mielke
Primary Institution: Oregon Department of Human Services
Hypothesis
How does a family history of diabetes affect health care provider practices and patient behaviors among nondiabetic individuals?
Conclusion
Patients with a family history of diabetes are more likely to engage with health care providers about their risk and make lifestyle changes to prevent diabetes.
Supporting Evidence
- Respondents with a strong family history were 5 times more likely to be worried about developing diabetes.
- Patients with a family history were more likely to report lifestyle changes to reduce diabetes risk.
- Health care providers were more likely to discuss diabetes risk with patients who had a family history.
Takeaway
If your family has diabetes, you might worry more about getting it yourself, and your doctor might help you change your diet and exercise to stay healthy.
Methodology
Data from the 2005 Oregon Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System was analyzed to evaluate associations between family history of diabetes and patient behaviors.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may lead to recall bias regarding health care provider interactions.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and self-reported data may be subject to recall bias.
Participant Demographics
Participants were nondiabetic Oregonians aged 18 and older, with a mix of genders and ethnicities.
Statistical Information
P-Value
5.0
Confidence Interval
4.0-6.2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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