The Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus -- A Case Study of the Yankton Sioux People
Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelors
Department
Social Sciences
First Advisor
Vesperi, Maria
Keywords
Type 2 Diabetes, Yankton Sioux People
Area of Concentration
Anthropology
Abstract
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes mellitus (type 2) has been identified as the fourth leading cause of death among Native Americans. It has been of great interest to many scientists to understand why the Native American People along with Alaskan Natives, African Americans and the Hispanic People are specific targets of the disease. The origins of the disease are still unknown and different hypotheses have come to light as to how this condition may have spread. However, looking at the history of Native Americans and their oppression by the white settlers and the U.S. government, it can be hypothesized that the impact of the disease has increased with forced, bounded settlement on designated land, causing a change in subsistence pattern and lifestyle. The research methods included a general study of the area and its people with emphasis on the creation of the Yankton Sioux Reservation and its change over time. I use data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau to provide statistical information on the reservation and its inhabitants, and to draw inferences about why high unemployment rates and low income may have a significant effect on health and the concept of a healthy lifestyle. I conducted several voluntary interviews with diabetics and with health care personnel from the Indian Health Service unit in Wagner, South Dakota.
Recommended Citation
Hoppe, Annett, "The Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus -- A Case Study of the Yankton Sioux People" (2003). Theses & ETDs. 3246.
https://digitalcommons.ncf.edu/theses_etds/3246
Rights
This bibliographic record is available under the Creative Commons CC0 public domain dedication. The New College of Florida, as creator of this bibliographic record, has waived all rights to it worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law.