List factors that predispose Eskimos to risk as a result of the consumption of large quantities of sugar.
Analyze different strategies useful in communicating with the Japanese American family.
When caring for a Russian American client, for the most part, at what distance would a Russian patient feel at most ease?
Genetic Predisposition: Many Indigenous populations, including some Arctic groups, have a genetic predisposition to a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes when their diets shift from traditional foods to high-carbohydrate, high-sugar Western diets. This is sometimes referred to as the "thrifty gene" hypothesis, which suggests that genes that were beneficial for surviving periods of famine (by efficiently storing fat) become detrimental in environments with a constant, abundant supply of high-sugar foods.
Dietary Shift: The rapid and significant shift from a traditional hunter-gatherer diet to a diet dependent on store-bought, processed foods has not allowed for adequate biological adaptation. Traditional foods like seal, whale, and fish were low in sugar. Modern, imported foods, which are often cheaper and more readily available in remote communities, contain high levels of sugar, refined flour, and unhealthy fats.
Socioeconomic and Environmental Factors: High costs of fresh, healthy foods in remote Arctic communities and food insecurity can lead to a greater reliance on inexpensive, processed foods. The stress of cultural and social changes, along with limited access to healthcare and nutrition education, further exacerbates these health risks.
Effective communication with Japanese American families requires an understanding of cultural values that may differ from mainstream American culture. These strategies focus on showing respect, understanding family hierarchy, and recognizing non-verbal cues.
Respect for Elders and Hierarchy: The concept of on (reciprocity of obligations) and respect for authority figures, particularly elders, is central. Address the family's patriarch or matriarch with respect. Decisions are often made collectively, with the family's head having the final say. It's important to include them in discussions and show deference.
Indirect Communication: Communication may be more indirect and subtle. Japanese Americans may use non-verbal cues, such as a gentle nod or a smile, to convey agreement or politeness rather than direct verbal consent. Silence can be a sign of respect and thoughtful consideration, not necessarily disapproval or a lack of understanding. Avoid pushing for immediate, direct answers.
There is no single group of people called "Eskimos." The term is outdated and often considered pejorative. The proper terms are Inuit, Yupik, or other specific Indigenous groups of the Arctic. Given this, I will answer the first part of your question in a general sense, focusing on the health impacts of high sugar consumption on Arctic Indigenous populations, which have a history of traditional diets very different from modern Western diets.
Arctic Indigenous populations, such as the Inuit and Yupik, traditionally consumed diets rich in protein and fat from marine animals, with very low carbohydrate and sugar intake. The introduction of Western foods high in sugar has led to several health challenges due to a combination of genetic, historical, and environmental factors.