Ethnic Dis
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The 7th Episcopal District African Methodist Episcopal Church represents 23% of African Americans in South Carolina. We describe lessons learned when a large faith community and two research universities collaborate. In 2001, the bishop of the 7th Episcopal District and the president of the Medical University of South Carolina signed a memorandum of understanding on how to collaborate, including the principles of sharing resources, credit, and responsibility. ⋯ Open communications and trust are keys to a successful partnership. This partnership requires people who are dedicated to the principles in the memorandum of understanding, are open to new ideas, and have positive attitudes. Culture clashes present opportunities to strengthen partnerships and new activities to achieve mutual goals.
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Diabetes mellitus disproportionately affects ethnic minorities and has serious economic, social, and personal implications. This study examines the effect of diabetes disease burden and social resources on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among older rural adults with diabetes. Data come from a population-based cross-sectional survey of 701 adults (age > or =65 years) with diabetes in North Carolina from three ethnic groups: African American, Native American, and White. ⋯ Aspects of rural social milieu may help to keep mental HRQOL high, even in the face of severe chronic disease. Ethnic differences in HRQOL are largely accounted for by diabetes disease burden and, to a lesser extent, social resources. Strategies to reduce diabetes-related complications (long term) and assist mobility (short term) may reduce ethnic disparities in HRQOL.
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Cultural competency leads to higher quality care for asthmatic children, yet it is not known whether asthma educational materials targeting minority children and families are culturally competent. The study objective was to evaluate the cultural competency of printed asthma educational materials targeting minorities in Wisconsin. ⋯ The few asthma educational materials targeting minorities that exist in Wisconsin are not culturally competent. More culturally competent asthma educational materials for minorities are needed.