Abstract
The present study aimed to examine factors that predict glycemic control in Hispanic youths. Secondary aims included developing and evaluating Spanish translations of three measures commonly used in research with youths with type 1 diabetes and examining factors associated with diabetes self-management in this population. Data was collected at three sites through interviews, questionnaires, and medical chart review. Participants included 117 Hispanic diabetic youths (10 to 17 years old) and their caregiver. 15% of the youths who participated were born outside of the continental U.S. and 57% were first generation born in the U.S. Translations of the Diabetes Self-Management Profile, Diabetes Social Support Questionnaire-Family version, and the Family Environment Scale?s Organization subscale had adequate reliability and showed evidence of concurrent validity. Primary analyses indicated that parent education, occupation, and household income are all significant predictors of glycemic control in Hispanic youth. In addition, global ratings of diabetes self-management on the DSMP predicted control in this population. Family factors did not contribute directly to glycemic control after controlling for sociodemographic and disease variables. However, older age, more acculturation, and language barriers were associated with poorer self-management. Additionally, family support and organization significantly contributed to self-management.