They say it runs in the family: Diabetes and inheritance in Oaxaca, Mexico

► Examines explanatory models for type 2 diabetes in a Oaxacan community. ► Assesses whether “genetic risk” and biological inheritance feature in explanatory models in a Mexican community, and if it influences patient care. ► Finds that genetics and family history feature prominently in public health and academic research on diabetes with Mexican populations. ► Patients emphasize strong emotions, while community doctors emphasize diet and activity in the causes and management of type 2 diabetes. ► Genetic etiologies are likely to reinforce existing racial hierarchies in Mexico, and interventions aimed at addressing the social determinants of type 2 diabetes are more likely to yield positive results.