Data from: A qualitative study exploring the health literacy issues in the care of Chinese American immigrants with diabetes

Objectives: To investigate why first-generation Chinese immigrants with
diabetes have difficulty obtaining, processing and understanding diabetes
related information despite the existence of translated materials and
translators. Design: This qualitative study employed purposive sampling.
Six focus groups and two individual interviews were conducted. Each group
discussion lasted approximately 90 min and was guided by semistructured
and open-ended questions. Setting: Data were collected in two community
health centres and one elderly retirement village in Los Angeles,
California. Participants: 29 Chinese immigrants aged ≥45 years and
diagnosed with type 2 diabetes for at least 1 year. Results: Eight key
themes were found to potentially affect Chinese immigrants' capacity
to obtain, communicate, process and understand diabetes related health
information and consequently alter their decision making in self-care.
Among the themes, three major categories emerged: cultural factors,
structural barriers, and personal barriers. Conclusions: Findings
highlight the importance of cultural sensitivity when working with
first-generation Chinese immigrants with diabetes. Implications for health
professionals, local community centres and other potential service
providers are discussed.