The prevalence of diabetes in the United States has rapidly grown for the past few decades and it seems that these rates will continue to rise. With a far-reaching grasp on the population, the question of how to deal with this particular condition arises out of necessity for the well-being of individuals in their respective communities. However, cultural attitudes towards this illness are going to vary between specific groups of people. Therefore treatment methods will have to be tailored to the communities and individuals that need them in order to be effective in managing symptoms and promoting better quality of life. The Appalachian region of the U.S. is a relatively large community that is greatly affected by diabetes. The inhabitants are often viewed as uneducated, impoverished, and having poor health outcomes. Although natural resources are prevalent, Appalachia has always struggled with poverty. Poverty tends to lead to lack of understanding of pre-diabetes, obesity, and poor education. In Appalachia there are high rates of childhood obesity and pre-diabetes. We are going to explore cultural perspectives and beliefs of the Appalachia.
