“You’ve Got to Love Yourself”: Photovoice Stories From African Americans and Hispanic/Latinos Living With Diabetes

Introduction: Health disparities persist among African Americans (AAs) and Latino adults with type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this research was to use PhotoVoice to examine AAs and Latinos’ daily experiences of managing diabetes. Method: An exploratory, descriptive study using PhotoVoice and focus groups was conducted over a 3-week period: Week 1 orientation session, Week 2 photo taking and returning cameras, and Week 3 focus group to share and discuss photos. Results: Ten AAs and nine Latino adults were enrolled, forming four focus groups. Four categories emerged: (1) daily life living with type 2 diabetes mellitus, (2) negative and positive emotions, (3) supports and barriers, and (4) needs. The social determinants of health influencing diabetes self-care were observed in discussions and photos—this included the built environment to promote a healthy lifestyle, social support, and education. Implications: PhotoVoice promotes culturally congruent care to better understand AA and Latinos’ experience living with type 2 diabetes mellitus.