392 CULTURAL PERCEPTIONS OF ILLNESS, TREATMENT, AND ACCESS TO CARE IN LATINO CHILDREN WITH CHRONIC RENAL DISEASE. (1st January 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Johnson, S.; Sidelinger, D.; Blanco, E.; Sekhon, R.; Palinkas, L.; Reznik, V.
• Is Part Of: Journal of investigative medicine. Volume 54:Number 1(2006)
• Page Start: S147
• Page End: S147
• Publication Date: 2006-01-01
• Subjects: Clinical medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; Medicine; Research -- United States; Clinical medicine; Medicine -- Research; Periodicals; 616.075
• DOI: 10.2310/6650.2005.X0004.391
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1081-5589

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Despite access to services, clinical outcomes for Latino pediatric patients with chronic disease have been reported to be less favorable than outcomes of non-Latino patients. Understanding cultural factors that contribute to disease perception and subsequent response to treatment is important for improving care in Latino children with chronic renal disease. Objective: To elucidate in Latino children with chronic renal disease and their families (1) inherent conceptions about the disease process, expression, and treatment; (2) perceived barriers to access to care and treatment; (3) reasons for potential nonadherence with treatment. Methods: Using Kleinman's questions to elicit health beliefs as a guide, semistructured interviews were conducted with 42 individuals representing 27 family units treated for chronic renal disease at Children's Hospital and Health Center in San Diego. Parents and children were interviewed separately, and demographic information was obtained. Interview transcripts were analyzed by coding consensus, co-occurrence, and comparison, using N-VIVO qualitative analysis software. Results: Distinctive patterns of disease perception and response to treatment were identified among Latino patients and their families as compared with their non-Latino counterparts. Explanatory model of disease, coping strategies, and the impact of the illness on family relationships, schooling, and physical activity were different across the two groups. Conclusion: Efforts to improve outcomes in Latino pediatric nephrology patients and families should take into account distinctive patterns disease understanding and response to illness observed in this population.