With November being National Diabetes Month, it’s important to know the risk factors associated with this disease, and what you can do to lower your chances of developing this serious illness that affects millions of people in America.
Diabetes presents a unique threat to the health of the Black community. Additionally, in many cases, people with diabetes often do not have access to regular medical care, cannot afford medication, and lack the community infrastructure that supports self-management practices.
How Diabetes Affects the Black Community
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health, diabetes uniquely affects the Black community in many ways:
- In 2019, non-Hispanic Black people were twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites to die from diabetes.
- In 2018, African American adults were 60 percent more likely than non-Hispanic white adults to be diagnosed with diabetes by a physician.
- In 2019, non-Hispanic Black people were 2.5 times likely to be hospitalized with diabetes and associated long-term complications than non-Hispanic whites.
- In 2019, non-Hispanic Black people were 3.2 times more likely to be diagnosed with end stage renal disease as compared to non-Hispanic whites.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that Black people are also more likely to suffer complications from diabetes. These include end-stage kidney disease and lower extremity amputations.
“As members of the Black community, we can do so much to lessen our chances of developing diabetes,” said Dr. Branden Turner, a family practice physician with Kaiser Permanente Baldwin Hills-Crenshaw. “All it takes is some motivation and knowing what steps we should take.
“If you have diabetes, learn how to manage it. If you don’t have it, find out if you’re at risk by contacting your doctor. The number one priority, however, is for us to adopt a healthy lifestyle with a healthful diet and regular. That’s important, because if you become a diabetic, it is irreversible and carries immense health risks!”
It’s important to understand that there are cultural factors within the Black community that along with poor diet and lack of exercise contribute to the high incidence of diabetes, Dr. Turner said. As such, the delivery of culturally competent care with options will better resonate with the Black community and help educate them about the importance of adopting a healthier lifestyle is paramount to success in lowering diabetes cases within the community.
On a personal note, Dr. Turner said he offers his African American patients options to make simple dietary changes when cooking for a healthier meal with less fat that’s still flavorful. He also encourages his patients to avoid fried food.
“The key is to give people options and be culturally sensitive to their needs so that your advice can connect better with them and lead to better results,” Dr. Turner said.
To learn more, visit https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/diabetes
