Cultural Adaptation of Diabetes Self-Management Education for Marshallese Residing in the United States: Lessons Learned in Curriculum Development

Background: Type 2 diabetes is a significant public health problem, with U.S. Pacific Islander communities bearing a disproportionate burden. The Marshallese are a Pacific Islander community that has significant inequities in diabetes, yet few evidence-based diabetes interventions have been developed to address this inequity.

Objectives: We used a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to adapt an evidence-based diabetes self-management education (DSME) intervention for the Marshallese.

Methods: Our team used the Cultural Adaptation Process Model, in addition to an iterative process consisting of formative data and previous literature review, and engagement with community and academic experts.

Lessons Learned: Specific cultural considerations were identified in adapting DSME components, including the dichotomous versus gradient conceptualization of ideas, the importance of engaging the entire family, the use of nature analogies, and the role of spirituality.

Conclusions: We identified key cultural considerations to incorporate into a diabetes self-management program for the Marshallese. The insights gained can inform others’ work with Pacific Islanders.