The Janssen Pharmaceutical Company recently launched a new initiative to help improve type 2 diabetes care in the U.S. Hispanic community.

The diabetic needs of Hispanic and non-Hispanic type 2 diabetes patients differ greatly, regarding disease management and perceptions. For this reason, Latinos require a personalized and culturally appropriate campaign to help encourage patients to seek out information and assistance from healthcare professionals.  

Janssen produced the multifaceted initiative to improve type 2 diabetes care, education and management in the Latino community through educational programs, training sessions, patient access, support resources and tools that help healthcare professionals cross linguistic and cultural barriers for more vigorous care.

"The growth of the U.S. Hispanic population and its status as our nation's largest minority represents unique opportunities and also challenges in ensuring a healthy population," Elena Rios, M.D., president of the National Hispanic Medical Association, said in a statement. "Diabetes is an increasing problem in our community. Hispanic patients perceive and manage diabetes quite differently than other populations, which makes culturally-relevant information, care and practices essential, and highlights why this Janssen initiative is so important."

According to a statement issued by Janseen, there are a number of cultural differences that exist when looking at Hispanics with type 2 diabetes vs. non-Hispanics. Latinos with type 2 diabetes are nearly twice as likely to experience feelings of isolation because of diabetes; they're more likely to be motivated by family to better care of themselves due to their illness; and they're likely to have difficulty adjusting to life with type 2 diabetes. Also, few are aware that the American Diabetes Association's recommended target A1C blood sugar level is 7 percent or less. Furthermore, Hispanics are apparently more than five times likely to cease their normal medication cycle as prescribed when they begin to feel better or see signs of improvement in their health.

Because diabetes in more prevalent among the U.S. Hispanic population that non-Hispanic whites, it's important that Hispanic adults with type 2 diabetes consistently check blood sugar levels, maintain a healthy diet, exercise and take prescribed medications to reduce the number of diabetes-related deaths and the risk of serious complications.  

Nauman Shah, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Metabolics at Janssen said it's their responsibility to help connect Latinos with things they may need. The tailored digital platforms will offer patient resources, practical lifestyle management resources and it will address gaps in understanding important diabetes health measures in ways that are relevant to Hispanic patients.

Also, the platform will feature what is being billed as first-of-its-kind patient decision aid to help physicians modify treatment methods based on individual patient preferences; profiles showcasing key differences among Hispanic type 2 diabetes patients with varied cultural backgrounds; and guidance to promote positive outcomes for the fast-growing community.