Hispanic adults diabetes rate is alarming
(Photo : Reuters)

According to the Miami Herald, the odds are stacked for Hispanic adults when fighting diabetes. There is a higher chance of having prediabetes and when left untreated, could lead to Type 2 diabetes. Dr. Rayesh K. Garg from University of Miami Health System, pins the blame on genetics and lifestyle. "Diet, high fat, high-carb, plays a big role," he said. 

In a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it revealed that Hispanic and Latino Americans are more susceptible to Type 2 diabetes, more than twice compared to Non-Hispanic whites. The report added that adults in the US have a 40 percent chance of developing diabetes later on, while for Hispanics, the number is at 50 percent. Moreover, the Latinos will have more severe complications such as kidney failure and vision loss linked to diabetes.  

Studies suggest that it cannot totally be prevented because it is a mix of nature (genes) and nurture (lifestyle), however, it can be prevented to some extent. Those who cannot afford to have regular check ups are also those who cannot afford to have proper and balanced diets. 

When breaking down the community, it will be revealed that there are many groups there within. The Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South and Central American are all under the Hispanic and Latino community. Different groups mean different lifestyles and diets, but they all have genes that are susceptible to diabetes. 

The alarming rate is not only a problem to the community but also to the government. Clinical Diabetes states that 218 billion dollars in direct and indirect costs were spent in treatment and diagnosis of diabetes in 2007. This figure will likely skyrocket in 2019. As a result, it becomes an economic burden aside from being a nationwide health issue. 

As Latino and Hispanics face uncertainty over immigration laws in the U.S., getting healthcare is a risk not many are willing to take to avoid unnecessary attention. But all is not lost as a medicine could help cut down the risks. Per NPR, mass shootings and healthcare access are two top stressors for the Latino community. 

Efforts are being done to address this issue. The National Diabetes Prevention Program (National DPP) is set up to help those with prediabetes. The program is in English and Spanish so that more people can understand it. Included in the course is losing 10 to 14 pounds under a trained coach. The idea is to have a group where they can share experiences with one another and help each other cope with challenges. Family members are also welcome to provide support. 

A drug is seen as a hope for the adult Hispanic diabetes patients. Metformin is an oral diabetes medicine that helps regulate sugar levels in the blood. Medical experts note that exercise and proper diet are needed to make it more effective. Garg advises his patients to do 30 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. On the other hand, Dr. Amy Aronovitz believes planning meals help reduce temptations. Quitting smoking also helps.