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Cultural Considerations for the Adaptation of a Diabetes Self-Management Education Program in Cotonou, Benin: Lessons Learned from a Qualitative Study

Author

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  • Halimatou Alaofè

    (Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA)

  • Sarah Yeo

    (Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA)

  • Abidemi Okechukwu

    (Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA)

  • Priscilla Magrath

    (Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA)

  • Waliou Amoussa Hounkpatin

    (School of Nutrition and Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi (FSA-UAC), Campus d’Abomey-Calavi, Calavi 01 BP 526, Benin)

  • John Ehiri

    (Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA)

  • Cecilia Rosales

    (Division of Public Health Practice & Translational Research, University of Arizona, Phoenix Plaza Building, 550 E. Van Buren Street, Phoenix, AZ 85006, USA)

Abstract

Background : Type 2 diabetes (T2D) poses a disproportionate burden on Benin, West Africa. However, no diabetes intervention has yet been developed for Benin’s contexts. This study aimed to explore specific cultural beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, and environmental factors to help adapt a diabetes self-management program to patients with T2D from Cotonou, in southern Benin. Methods : Qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions (FDGs) involving 32 patients with T2D, 16 academic partners, and 12 community partners. The FDGs were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim from French to English, and then analyzed thematically with MAXQDA 2020. Results : Healthy food was challenging to obtain due to costs, seasonality, and distance from markets. Other issues discussed were fruits and vegetables as commodities for the poor, perceptions and stigmas surrounding the disease, and the financial burden of medical equipment and treatment. Information about local food selections and recipes as well as social support, particularly for physical activity, were identified, among other needs. When adapting the curriculum, gender dynamics and spirituality were suggested. Conclusions : The study demonstrates the need for culturally sensitive interventions and a motivation-based approach to health (spiritual and emotional support). It also lays the groundwork for addressing T2D contextually in Benin and similar sub-Saharan African countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Halimatou Alaofè & Sarah Yeo & Abidemi Okechukwu & Priscilla Magrath & Waliou Amoussa Hounkpatin & John Ehiri & Cecilia Rosales, 2021. "Cultural Considerations for the Adaptation of a Diabetes Self-Management Education Program in Cotonou, Benin: Lessons Learned from a Qualitative Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(16), pages 1-15, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:16:p:8376-:d:610278
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mary D Adu & Usman H Malabu & Aduli E O Malau-Aduli & Bunmi S Malau-Aduli, 2019. "Enablers and barriers to effective diabetes self-management: A multi-national investigation," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 14(6), pages 1-22, June.
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