Population-Based Assessment of Diabetes Care and Self- management Among Puerto Rican Adults in New York City

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to assess the status of diabetes medical care and self-management among adult Puerto Ricans in New York City.MethodsA random-digit-dialing telephone survey with a dual-frame sampling design was employed to obtain a probability sample of adult Puerto Ricans with diagnosed diabetes (n = 606). Demographic characteristics, health status, and indicators of diabetes medical care and self- management were collected using the standard Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) questionnaire. A statewide sample of adults with diagnosed diabetes (n = 232) was obtained from the BRFSS for comparison.ResultsCompared to New York State adults, Puerto Ricans were significantly less likely to receive annual A1C testing (72.7% vs 84.9%), cholesterol testing (67.5% vs 87.2%), blood-pressure-lowering medication (82.4% vs 91.9%), and pneumococcal vaccination (19.3% vs 28.5%, among those aged 18 to 64 years). Puerto Ricans were also less likely to take aspirin every day or every oth...