A phenomenological study of health concept in the experiences of Iranian women with diabetes

What is it about?

This study explores the meaning of health among Iranian women with diabetes using hermeneutic phenomenology based on Van Manen’s approach. A total of 19 women with diabetes who were referred to the Diabetes Center of Imam Khomeini hospital in Ardabil, Iran were recruited using a purpose sampling method. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Each interview was transcribed verbatim and analyzed simultaneously. Data analysis led to the emergence of five main themes: a God-centered life, health as a precious possession, health as well-being, independence, and acceptance. Patients often described coping with their illnesses and pursuing lifestyle changes by applying their spiritual and religious beliefs.The findings of this study can be used by healthcare teams to revise their opinions about patients with diabetes according to the culture of their patients.

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Why is it important?

The results show that a complement to the biomedical knowledge and other experimental studies of the illness and should be considered in the planning and development of care for Muslim women with diabetes.

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