Cultural Perceptions and Diabetes Self-Care in Filipino Americans With Type 2 Diabetes: An Integrative Review for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

PURPOSE: The purpose of this integrative literature review was to synthesize quantitative and qualitative evidence describing the impact of cultural perceptions on diabetes self-care behaviors among Filipino American adults with type 2 diabetes (T2DM), identifying knowledge gaps and generating practice implications for diabetes care and education specialists. METHODS: Using Whittemore and Knafl's integrative review framework, 4 databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Medline, and ScienceDirect) were searched for English-language studies published from 2000 to 2025. Inclusion criteria included empirical studies examining cultural factors, classified as (1) family-centered values (e.g., bayanihan, pakikisama), (2) traditional food practices, (3) spirituality and fatalism, (4) acculturation and colonial mentality, and (5) community support networks and at least 1 ADCES7 self-care behavior in Filipino American adults with T2DM. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice tool. Data were extracted into standardized matrices and analyzed through constant comparative analysis. RESULTS: Nine studies (6 quantitative, 3 qualitative) identified 5 cultural domains that facilitated or hindered ADCES7 behaviors, including healthy eating, medication adherence, and blood glucose monitoring. Evidence strength ranged from Level II to Level III. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes care and education specialists must assess these 5 cultural domains, incorporating family involvement, culturally appropriate nutrition counseling, spiritual considerations, and community-based support, to enhance ADCES7 self-care behaviors.