[Chronic disease in ethnic minorities: tools for patient-centred care in diabetes, hypertension and COPD].

In the Netherlands, chronic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, are more common and have a poorer prognosis in patients of Surinamese, Turkish and Moroccan origin. Surinamese develop cardiovascular diseases more often and at an earlier age; it is recommended that their cardiovascular risk profile be checked at an earlier stage. Standard treatment of diabetes mellitus is less effective among ethnic minorities. Patient information that is in line with the educational level and cultural values of the patient leads to better glucose levels. Focus group research among ethnic minorities shows that lifestyle changes which conflict with their own cultural beliefs or lack support in their social environment are often not adopted. Ethnic differences in the efficacy and toxicity of drugs are mainly caused by genetically determined variations in the activity of drug metabolizing enzymes.