Diabetes, a chronic condition involving high blood glucose levels, disproportionately affects Hispanic communities in the United States. With its serious long-term health consequences, understanding the unique risks Hispanic children, youth, and adults face is essential. This article highlights the prevalence, types, complications, and ways to reduce diabetes risk in Hispanic communities, especially among younger generations.
The Existing and Newly Diagnosed Diabetes among Connecticut Adults report from March 2024 by the Connecticut Department of Public Health indicates that Black and Hispanic adults in Connecticut have a higher prevalence and adjusted odds ratio of diagnosed diabetes compared to White adults. Risk factors such as older age, obesity, cardiovascular disease, and physical inactivity further increase the likelihood of diabetes diagnosis.
As defined by the American Diabetes Association (ADA), diabetes is a group of diseases characterized by high blood glucose levels, occurring when the body cannot properly use insulin. Insulin is crucial for moving glucose from the blood into cells for energy. Without effective insulin function, high blood sugar can damage various organs over time, including the kidneys, eyes, nerves, and cardiovascular system.
Types of Diabetes
Type 1 Diabetes: This autoimmune disease destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, requiring those affected to take daily insulin. Though it accounts for 5-10% of all diabetes cases, it can occur in Hispanic children as well. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes include frequent thirst, unexplained weight loss, and extreme fatigue.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, making up 90-95% of cases, results from the body’s inability to use insulin effectively. While type 2 diabetes typically develops in adults, Hispanic youth are increasingly affected, likely due to rising obesity rates and genetic factors.
Gestational Diabetes: This temporary condition occurs during pregnancy but raises long-term diabetes risk for both mother and child. Hispanic women are particularly susceptible, with gestational diabetes occurring in about 4.1% of pregnancies in Connecticut, according to the Connecticut Department of Public Health.
Diabetes in Hispanic Youth
Hispanic children and youth are particularly vulnerable to type 2 diabetes, which has been observed in increasing numbers among adolescents. Here are some important statistics and factors that contribute to this risk:
Obesity: Approximately 25% of Hispanic children in the U.S. are classified as overweight or obese. Limited access to healthy food, lower rates of physical activity, and fewer safe spaces for exercise are contributing factors.
Genetic Predispositions: Certain genes linked to type 2 diabetes, like the SLC16A11 gene, are more prevalent among Hispanic populations, particularly those with Mexican ancestry. Genetic factors may make insulin less effective, increasing susceptibility to diabetes.
Early Onset and Long-Term Risks: Early onset of type 2 diabetes means Hispanic youth may face complications, such as kidney disease and nerve damage, at younger ages.
Type 1 Diabetes in Hispanic Youth: Though less common, type 1 diabetes can also affect Hispanic children, with warning signs that include fatigue, blurry vision, and frequent thirst and urination.
Diabetes Risk Among Hispanic Adults
In Hispanic adults, diabetes prevalence varies significantly across subgroups:
- Puerto Rican: 13.3%
- Mexican or Mexican American: 11.1%
- Dominican: 9.4%
- Cuban: 9.0%
- Central/South American: 5.0%–7.3%
Complications of Diabetes
If not managed, diabetes can affect multiple systems in the body, leading to complications such as:
Cardiovascular Disease: The risk of heart disease and stroke is significantly elevated. Controlling blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol helps reduce this risk.
Kidney Disease: Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure. Annual testing and maintaining blood pressure and blood glucose levels are essential preventive measures.
Vision Loss: Diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts are all more common among those with diabetes, making regular eye exams critical.
Foot and Nerve Damage: Diabetes can cause nerve damage, especially in the feet, leading to numbness and an increased risk of infections.
Oral Health Issues: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and impact heart health.
Prevention and Management
Awareness, regular screenings, and lifestyle modifications are key to preventing and managing diabetes. Many community health centers provide low-cost or sliding-fee services for uninsured individuals. The ADA’s 60-Second Type 2 Diabetes Risk Test is an excellent tool to assess personal risk.
For Hispanic families, increasing access to fresh food, safe areas for physical activity, and culturally relevant health education can make a significant difference. School and community programs are crucial in raising awareness among Hispanic families, helping youth develop healthy habits early on to reduce their risk of diabetes.
For more resources and information, visit:
- American Diabetes Association
- Connecticut State Department of Public Health
The Importance of Community Support
The rise in diabetes among Hispanic youth and adults calls for greater community and healthcare support. By understanding the unique risks and taking proactive steps, Hispanic families can work together to prevent diabetes and support those affected.
For more detailed resources, visit the American Diabetes Association or the Connecticut State Department of Public Health for information on diabetes prevention, diagnosis, and community resources. If you or your child need assistance or are looking to find a community health center in locations throughout Connecticut, visit the Community Health Center Association of Connecticut’s Find a Health Center.