Why Diabetes Hits Latinos Harder and How We Can Take Control

November marks Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the prevention, detection, and management of one of the most pressing health challenges in the United States. The month honors Dr. Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin in 1921, and serves as a reminder to understand how diabetes impacts different communities; especially Latino families, who are disproportionately affected.

According to the U.S. Department of Health, about 11.5% of Latino adults in the U.S. have diagnosed diabetes, compared to 7.2% of non-Latino whites, and many more live with the disease undiagnosed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) predicts that more than half of Hispanic adults will develop type 2 diabetes in their lifetime. Among children, the rate is up to five times higher than in non-Hispanic white youth.

The consequences go beyond blood sugar. Adults with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease, and in Latino communities, diabetes often begins at younger ages, setting the stage for early cardiovascular problems.

Why Are Latinos More at Risk?

Experts point to a mix of genetic, social, and cultural factors that contribute to higher diabetes rates among Latinos.

• Genetics: Research shows that certain genes, such as SLC16A11, are more common among people of Mexican ancestry and are linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. People with more Indigenous or African ancestry also tend to have higher insulin resistance, meaning their bodies struggle to process sugar effectively.
• Social determinants of health: Economic barriers often limit access to healthy foods, regular medical checkups, and medications. Latino families are more likely to live in poverty and lack health insurance, making prevention and long-term care more difficult. Education also matters: graduating from high school or higher education is linked to lower diabetes risk.
• Culture and language: Language barriers and cultural beliefs about health can also influence care. Some people see insulin as a last resort rather than a helpful tool, or view being overweight as a sign of prosperity. Access to Spanish-language and culturally adapted education is key for improving diabetes outcomes.

Culture, Food, and Family Traditions

Traditional Latino foods are a cornerstone of cultural identity, but portion size and preparation can make all the difference. Dishes like tortillas, tamales, and fried foods are often prepared with saturated fats, such as lard or oil. However, experts emphasize that it’s not about giving up cultural favorites, but rather preparing them in healthier ways.

“Tortillas and tamales are part of culture, and that’s beautiful. But portion and preparation matter: one tortilla, not four, or tamales made without lard,” says Dr. Liset Stoletniy, cardiologist at Loma Linda University International Heart Institute. “Small changes protect the heart without erasing tradition.”

“Diabetes is a silent enemy. It doesn’t just affect blood sugar. It damages the heart, kidneys, blood vessels, and brain,” says Stoletniy. “When sugars aren’t controlled, every cell in the body suffers.”

While prevention might not make headlines, it saves lives. The good news is that small, consistent changes, like eating balanced meals, walking daily, and getting regular screenings, can dramatically reduce the risk of developing diabetes or its complications.

Five Everyday Habits to Protect Latino Hearts

1. 1. Get regular health checks: Monitor A1C, blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight regularly.
   2. Make healthier swaps: Replace soda with water and lemon, fried foods with grilled, and lard with avocado oil.
   3. Move together: Turn exercise into a family activity, walking after dinner or dancing are great options.
   4. Manage stress: Practice deep breathing, prayer, or mindfulness to support emotional and physical health.
   5. Follow medical advice: Take prescribed medications consistently and don’t skip checkups.

 

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Taking the Next Step

Latino families already have the tools: strong community ties, cultural traditions centered on fresh ingredients, and resilience. By making small, meaningful changes together, we can rewrite the future of Latino health.

If it’s been a while since your last checkup, schedule a primary care visit this month. Ask about diabetes screening, lifestyle guidance, and community programs like the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP), available in English and Spanish.

Diabetes Awareness Month isn’t just about raising awareness; it’s about empowering communities to take control. Together, Latinos can build a healthier, stronger future, one choice at a time.