. . .The high prevalence of diabetes in Asian immigrants may be a result of westernization and urbanization with an increase in consumption of animal fat and sedentary lifestyle, superimposed upon a predisposed genetic background. Diabetic risk was reported to be associated with obesity - defined as an increase in body mass index (weight in kg divided by the square of height in m) and, in particular, with increased central adiposity (fat belly).
What can be done about a disease that is crippling and hastening the deaths of millions of Americans, a disproportion of whom are people of color?
Research. Preliminary research, as stated above, has identified two genes that may play a role in the development of Type II diabetes. Additional funding could greatly accelerate the investigation of that and other possible genetic contributors to the illness. In addition to lobbying the government, consider making your workplace United Way contribution to the ADA.
Preventive care. Health departments need to identify families at a risk for developing diabetes before the disease manifests itself. In a time of cuts in Medicaid and state health care funding, that is occurring less often. Lean on your state government, particularly, in regard to childrens' healthcare.
Lifestyle changes. Like charity, healthcare begins at home. All Americans, including minorities, can greatly reduce their and their childrens' risk of developing diabetes by exercising, eating a balanced diet and being tested for early signs of the disease.
Note: This entry also appeared at Silver Rights.
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1 - Inderpreet Singh
Diabetes Mellitus