Over 133 million Americans have diabetes or prediabetes. Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of certain types of cancers and doubles the risk of heart disease or stroke.
Those in Black and Hispanic/Latino communities are more than 50% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes compared to non-Hispanic whites, and American Indians/Alaskan Natives are twice as likely. Location, transportation access, education level, employment status, access to care, and access to healthy food also put these communities at higher risk of developing life-threatening chronic diseases, such as diabetes, certain types of cancer, and heart disease.
The connection between these diseases and the disproportionate impact on communities of color further underscores how by working through collaborative partnerships with local organizations and community members, we can begin to achieve health equity for all.