The person with diabetes: from a therapeutic to an existential focus

Abstract

This study was motivated by the aspects lived by people with diabetes and the implications the disease have on their lives. In essence, this study was performed with the purpose of changing the disease from its position of a fact to the position of a phenomenon that needs further clarification. Phenomenology was the framework used in this investigation, with a view to undertand the meaning of living with diabetes. The study location was a health institution in the city of San Luis Potosí, Mexico, where people with diabetes were interviewed and provided statements about their experience. Data analysis permitted the construction of thematic categories, which revealed important facets regarding these people's existence. The study provided new perspectives for looking beyond the disease, and seeing the person with diabetes within their situational context, thus, showing some paths for health care policies.