while simultaneously increasing awareness about the disease. The project team conducted an
extensive review of published literature and available programs and educational resources
focused on diabetes and Alzheimers disease among American Indians. The team also developed
and delivered a workshop on diabetes and Alzheimers disease at the North Carolina American
Indian Unity Conference in March 2015. Finally, the team developed a community needs
assessment questionnaire and collected data among workshop attendees and other conference
attendees.
Results: Our review of the literature indicates that there is limited research on the relationship
type 2 diabetes and Alzheimers disease among American Indians. Several programs and
educational resources are available focused individually on type 2 diabetes and Alzheimers
disease among American Indian populations, but not making the connection between the two
diseases. The Diabetes/Alzheimers disease workshop was well received and well attended, and
generated important discussions from the group on the lack of information on this topic and the
limited resources in their communities to support Alzheimers disease care. Survey data
indicated similar issues, particularly as it relates to the personal and tribal impact of these
conditions, and the lack of education/awareness opportunities within NC tribal communities.
Conclusions: Our initial efforts indicate a limited amount of research and educational resources
focused on type 2 diabetes and Alzheimers disease focused on American Indian populations.
American Indian communities in North Carolina are greatly affected by these conditions and
would greatly benefit from prevention and treatment programs.
Funding: Support for this project was provided by the North Carolina American Indian Health
Board and the Maya Angelou Center for Health Equity of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.