Hispanic Americans face a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes compared to other ethnic groups. With nearly 40 million Americans affected by diabetes, it is crucial to understand the risk factors, particularly for Hispanic communities, and take proactive steps to prevent or manage the disease.
Increased Risk for Hispanic Americans
Research has shown that Hispanic Americans are 60% more likely to develop diabetes than their non-Hispanic counterparts. Several alarming statistics illustrate the severity of the issue:
In 2020, Hispanic Americans were 1.5 times more likely to die from diabetes than non-Hispanic whites.
In 2022, Hispanic adults were 60% more likely to receive a diabetes diagnosis compared to non-Hispanic white adults.
Hispanics were more than twice as likely to be hospitalized for end-stage renal disease caused by diabetes in 2020, compared to non-Hispanic whites.
This heightened risk is partly due to genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare. However, the good news is that by being proactive, making healthier lifestyle choices, and getting regular screenings, individuals can significantly reduce their risk.
What You Can Do to Lower Your Risk
1. Know Your Risk Factors
Understanding your personal risk factors is the first step in preventing diabetes. These factors include race and ethnicity, genetics, weight, and lifestyle choices. For Hispanic Americans, race is a key risk factor, as they are more likely to develop diabetes and suffer from related complications, such as kidney disease. The earlier you know your risk, the sooner you can take action.
2. Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Making small, sustainable lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on diabetes prevention. Consider the following strategies:
Healthy eating: Focus on a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Regular physical activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week, such as walking or other forms of aerobic activity.
Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of diabetes and other chronic conditions.
Monitor glucose levels: Regular blood glucose checks can help catch any potential issues early.
Regular screenings: Stay on top of screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, kidney function, and other health markers.
Incorporating even modest weight loss (5-10% of your body weight) and consistent physical activity can reduce the risk of diabetes by over 50%.
3. Get Screened for Diabetes
Early detection is key. If you’re over the age of 35, or if you have risk factors like being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, or having high blood pressure, get screened regularly for diabetes. Early intervention can prevent or delay the onset of the disease.
Support Available for Diabetes Prevention
In-home health evaluations (IHEs), such as those offered by Signify Health, provide valuable support in managing your health and preventing diabetes. These services include diabetes screenings, personalized care plans, and guidance from healthcare professionals, all in the comfort of your own home. For people already living with diabetes, in-home visits can help ensure adherence to treatment plans and prevent complications, such as kidney disease and cardiovascular issues.
With 60% of people with elevated HbA1c levels (a key marker of diabetes) not following their treatment plans, these home visits play a critical role in improving outcomes. They also help close gaps in care, educate patients, and provide customized plans to manage diabetes and other chronic conditions.
Conclusion
Hispanic Americans are at a higher risk for developing diabetes, but by understanding the risk factors, making healthy lifestyle choices, and getting screened early, it is possible to significantly reduce this risk. With the support of healthcare professionals and preventive care programs, individuals can take control of their health and manage their diabetes risk effectively.
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