Rasmi Tith is a primary care registered dietitian in Quebec, and has previously practiced in Ontario. She is a graduate of McGill University’s Bachelor’s in Nutritional Sciences, Dietetics Major. She also holds a Master in Public Health from the University of Waterloo. Rasmi Tith’s practicum allowed her to published three research papers looking at 1- the effect of Ramadan on prematurity in Arabic women, 2- cardiovascular disease risk in women with bulimia and 3- the effect of bariatric surgery and congenital diseases. Her experience comes from working with cultural communities and in the diabetes field for almost 10 years. She has experience in providing individual counselling and, group teachings on chronic disease management. In addition, she has been involved in the implementation of community initiatives, such community kitchen and community gardens while working with a Community Health Center. Currently, she works with the South Asian community, and specializes in type 2 diabetes care. Her main goal is empower cultural communities to take part of their health management and decision making.
Type 2 diabetes is highly prevalent in some cultural groups in Canada. There is increasing literature on the positive impact of culturally competent diabetes self-management programs which address the cultural characteristics of different communities. This workshop will provide an overview of the role of cultural competencies in diabetes care and education. Through the use of case studies, dietitians will explore the practical approach to counselling clients from cultural communities for effective delivery of diabetes care and education.