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Minorities & Type 2

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes among the African American, American Indian, Asian American, Pacific Islander and Latino American populations ranges from two to six times greater than the white population. In addition, certain minority groups also have a much higher rate of diabetes-related complications and death, in some instances by as much as 50 more than the total population. However, it has been found that the rate of complications varies by disease and minority group.

In general, the risk factors for developing diabetes are:

• family history.
• being overweight.
• sedentary lifestyle
• smoking
• over 40 years of age
• limited access to healthcare

Studies comparing migrant populations with native nonmigrant populations found a consistent link between type 2 diabetes and the American lifestyle. This lifestyle includes a diet higher in total calories and fat but lower in fiber, as well as the tendency to expend less energy because of laborsaving devices. All minority groups in the United States for which data exist have a higher prevalence of diabetes than do the residents of their countries of origin.

Excerpted and adapted from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Publication No.02-P007.

Reviewed by Francine Kaufman, MD. 4/08