Health according to the experiences of Iranian women with diabetes: A phenomenological study

Abstract

This study explores the meaning of health among Iranian women with diabetes using hermeneutic phenomenology based on Van Manen's approach. A total of 19 women with diabetes who were referred to the Diabetes Center of Imam Khomeini hospital in Ardabil, Iran were recruited using a purposive sampling method. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews. Each interview was transcribed verbatim and analyzed simultaneously. Data analysis led to the emergence of five main themes: a God-centered life, health as a precious possession, health as wellbeing, independence, and acceptance. Patients often described coping with their illnesses and pursuing lifestyle changes by applying their spiritual and religious beliefs. The findings of this study can be used by healthcare teams to revise their opinions about patients with diabetes according to the culture of their patients.