To assess the fat-related dietary behaviors of adult Puerto Ricans with and without diagnosed diabetes, living in New York City.

A random-digit-dialing telephone survey was conducted following Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System procedures. Dietary behavior was assessed using a brief Fat-Related Diet Habits Questionnaire, in which higher scores indicated higher fat intake.

A total of 1,304 adult Puerto Ricans living in New York City were interviewed. Diabetes status was assessed using standard Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System questions.

Weighted analyses using SUDAAN software for complex surveys were done, and t tests were used to assess differences in mean fat-related dietary score by sociodemographic and health characteristics. Age-adjusted least-squared means were used to compare scores between those with and without diabetes. Linear regression was used to model characteristics associated with fat-related dietary score.

Fat-related dietary score was lower among those with diabetes and varied by population and health characteristics. Age-adjusted scores were significantly lower for those with diabetes who were younger, less educated, obese, or physically active. In the regression model, family history, weight, and exercise interacted with diabetes status. Those with diabetes were significantly more likely to modify meat consumption practices (eg, remove skin or trim fat) to reduce fat compared with those without diabetes.

New York City Puerto Ricans with diabetes are somewhat more likely to engage in behaviors to reduce fat compared with those without diabetes. Targeted, culturally sensitive nutrition education and counseling emphasizing lower-fat food choices and other fat-reducing behaviors can help reduce risk and control diabetes. Education messages should be tailored to the individual’s diabetes status and other health and sociodemographic characteristics.