Diabetes

Diabetes in African Americans

Understanding Diabetes Risks

Diabetes is a significant health concern in the African American community, with millions affected by this chronic condition. Understanding the risks, statistics, and preventative measures is crucial for improving health outcomes. This page provides comprehensive diabetes data for African Americans, offering insights and resources to help manage and prevent diabetes effectively.

Key Statistics:

  • Prevalence: Approximately 13.2% of all African Americans aged 20 and older have diagnosed diabetes, compared to 7.4% of non-Hispanic whites.
  • Undiagnosed Cases: It is estimated that over 2 million African Americans are living with undiagnosed diabetes.
  • Mortality Rates: African Americans are more than twice as likely to die from diabetes compared to non-Hispanic whites.
EDU Diabetes (1)

Risk Factors:

  • Genetics: A family history of diabetes significantly increases the risk.
  • Obesity: Nearly 4 out of 5 African American women are overweight or obese, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
  • Access to Healthcare: Limited access to quality healthcare services can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Prevention Strategies:

  • Healthy Eating: Emphasize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while reducing sugar and processed food intake.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Encourage at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.
  • Regular Screenings: Promote routine blood sugar screenings, especially for those with a family history of diabetes.