Diabetes & Minorities: The Risks, the Support & How to Cope

Statistics show minorities are at more risk of developing diabetes than any other group. While researchers are clear their statistics are accurate, they are unsure of the reasoning for these statistics. The facts are "diabetes is on the rise among African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americas, Asians and Pacific Islanders", according to the DaVita site. This causes great concern in these communities, forcing doctors to take more proactive measures with their minority patients.

The risks are highest for Native American or Alaska natives, with the most at-risk groups being from the Southeast regions of the United States. The second highest at-risk ground is Non-Hispanic blacks. Diabetes and minorities is a topic many people don't discuss, however researchers are starting to find more links in minority groups and certain common medical conditions and diseases.

One reason researchers believe there is a higher incident of diabetes in these minority groups is because when they come to the United States, they settle into the Western Diet. Because a traditional American diet consists of high-fat, high-sugar foods, they often develop Type-2 diabetes. This adult-onset diabetes is often a direct link to a patient's diet and exercise plan.

Because obesity is one of the causes of insulin resistance, it can lead to Type-2 diabetes. The fact obesity is linked to various minority groups may explain the link between diabetes and minorities. For instance, African American women are twice as likely to be obese as white women and Hispanic women are half way in between, reveals the DaVita site. Because these minorities are more likely to be overweight or obese, they may have more risks associated with developing diabetes. This is a cultural barrier when it comes to diabetes and minorities, although obesity is a problem with diabetics of all nationalities and heritage.

Those minorities who are diagnosed with diabetes can get healthier by doing a few things. First, they should immediately follow the directions of their doctor on treating and monitoring their condition. Second, they should change their diet and eat a healthy diabetic-friendly array of foods. Third, they should begin a healthy exercise program approved by their doctor.

The key to minorities avoiding diabetes is to counteract the genetic risk with things the patient can control. While a person can't change their genetic makeup, they can control their diet and exercise frequency. Those who are at-risk should be sure to keep their weight in a healthy range, eat a diabetic-friendly diet and get at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise each day.