.
Figure 1: Age-adjusted Prevalence of Diabetes in People Aged 20 Years or Older, by Race/Ethnicity - United States 2000.
.
Source: 1997-1999 National Health Interview Survey and 1988-1994 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey estimates projected to year 2000. 1998 outpatient database of the Indian Health Service.
To add weight to the problem of diabetes prevalence among Hispanics, many Hispanics may experience barriers when attempting to not only access, but continue receiving quality healthcare. For example, 68% of Hispanics are less likely to have health insurance coverage in comparison to non-Hispanic whites [19]. Hispanics, unlike many other racial and ethnic groups can face a multitude of barriers specifically those dealing with language proficiency and adequate economic resources. Some have reported that, some Hispanics, specifically women, might be less likely to seek treatment due to feelings of guilt because they consider healthcare to be a self indulgent behavior [7]. All of these barriers plus others can contribute to either the non-feasibility of quality healthcare. .
A2. Complementary and Alternative Medicinal Therapies.
Despite the fact that enormous advances have been made in conventional medical care, many people choose to turn to other methods of non-conventional treatment for diabetes control. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been defined by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) as a collection of diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not considered to be part of present day conventional medicine. Complementary medicine is specifically used together with conventional medicine while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional medicine [18.] CAM therapies include, but are not limited to acupuncture, chiropractic, dietary supplements, faith and spiritual healing, folk medicine, guided imagery, homeopathy, lifestyle diets, massage, and therapeutic touch [4, 20-22].
