Implementation and evaluation of a diabetes intervention program in Indigenous Australian Communities

Approximately 700,000 Australians have type 2 diabetes (also termed maturity-onset diabetes or non-insulin dependent diabetes), which is a condition associated with reduced lifespan, eye disease, heart disease, renal disease, stroke, and foot complications leading to amputation. Indigenous Australians are at particularly high risk, with over 30% of adults affected by this condition in a number of communities, associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle modification and tight control of the blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol are the keys to preventing the complications of diabetes. Self-management is central to success, and education, support and encouragement play an important role. This research project incorporates an education program that has been developed in partnership with the Indigenous health team at Cherbourg. Particular strengths include the emphasis on family involvement and community support. The central role of the Indigenous health team will ensure continuity of benefit to the community. If proven to be effective, the program could be used as a model for interventions in other community settings to reduce the burden from type 2 diabetes in the Indigenous Australian population.