Minority groups and diabetes

There is a well-established link between minority groups and diabetes. Minority populations, including African Americans, Hispanic/Latinos, Native Americans, and Asian Americans, have a higher risk of developing diabetes.

According to the American Diabetes Association, the prevalence of diabetes among non-Hispanic whites in the United States is around 7.5%, while it is around 12.5% among African Americans, 13.2% among Hispanics/Latinos, and 15.9% among Native Americans. The prevalence of diabetes is also higher among Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, with rates ranging from 9.2% among Chinese Americans to 16.1% among Native Hawaiians.

There are several reasons for these disparities. Firstly, people in minority groups are more likely to have risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity, physical inactivity, and a family history of the disease. Secondly, they also often have limited access to healthcare, which can make it difficult for them to receive proper diabetes screening and management. Thirdly, there may be cultural and social factors that influence diabetes risk, such as dietary habits and stress.

Efforts are being made to address these disparities through targeted diabetes prevention and management programs for minorities. These programs often focus on improving access to healthcare, increasing awareness about diabetes risk factors and prevention strategies, and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors.

Here is our community member "Thapi Semenya" spreading awareness about minority groups within the diabetes space: