The effect of a cognitive–behavioral intervention on diet and exercise among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders with type 2 diabetes

• Main Authors: Jan Yomogida, Jillian Inouye, Dongmei Li, James Davis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Hawaii Press 2015-06-01
• Series: Asian/Pacific Island Nursing Journal
• Subjects: cognitive–behavioral intervention; CBT; type 2 diabetes; Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders; self-management; diet and exercise
• Online Access: http://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/apin/vol1/iss1/7/

Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90% to 95% of all diabetic cases with Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders particularly at risk. The purpose was to assess the effects of a cognitive–behavioral intervention (CBI) on diet and exercise among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders with type 2 diabetes. Using a double-blinded, two-arm randomized clinical trial (n = 207), data on diet and exercise were analyzed before and after a 6-week CBI. Over time, treatment group showed a decrease in kcals and increase in steps compared with control group; however, results were not statistically significant. Treatment group had lower kcals of trans-fat, saturated fat, sugar, alcohol, caffeine, and dietary fiber compared with the control group. Older subjects and females had significantly lower caloric intake (p < .01). Females exercised less and took fewer steps compared with males (p < .05). CBI may be effective in lowering calorie intake and increasing physical activity among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders with type 2 diabetes. Significant differences in gender and age point to the need for individualized research and treatment targeting this group.