Explain the prevalence of diabetes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and outline TWO possible determinants contributing to this health issue. (4 marks)
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*Cause-and-effect language that directly addresses the “Explain” keyword is bolded in the answer below. Determinant 1 Determinant 2
*Cause-and-effect language that directly addresses the “Explain” keyword is bolded in the answer below.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults have approximately twice the diabetes rate of non-Indigenous Australians (7.9% vs 4.1%).
Determinant 1
- Limited access to affordable fresh food in remote communities results in ATSI Peoples buying processed foods high in sugar and fat.
- This dietary pattern directly causes insulin resistance and weight gain, which leads to Type 2 diabetes development.
- As a result, diabetes incidence rises significantly in these communities.
Determinant 2
- Historical dispossession from traditional lands resulted in loss of traditional hunting/gathering practices and native food sources.
- This disruption caused a shift from nutrient-rich bush foods to Western processed diets.
- Additionally, cultural barriers in healthcare prevent early diabetes screening and management, allowing the disease to develop undetected and untreated.