Why National Diabetes Month Matter

Diabetes affects over 53 million adults in the U.S.—a staggering 15.8% of the population as of 2025. But the burden is not shared equally. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) face significantly higher rates of both type 2 diabetes and its complications due to a complex web of structural racism, limited access to care, and food insecurity.

• American Indian/Alaska Native adults are diagnosed with diabetes 36% more often than the general population.

• Black adults are nearly twice as likely to die from diabetes-related causes compared to white adults.

• Latinx adults are 70% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic whites.

This year’s campaign theme, “Taking Action to Prevent Diabetes-Related Health Problems,” emphasizes early detection, lifestyle support, and community-based solutions.

The Hidden Link: Food Insecurity & Diabetes

Food insecurity—defined as limited or uncertain access to nutritious food—affects millions of Americans, especially in low-income and BIPOC communities. It’s not just about hunger; it’s about nutritional quality and chronic stress.

• People experiencing food insecurity are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and struggle to manage it due to inconsistent access to healthy meals.

• Many must choose between groceries and medications, or rely on low-cost, high-carb foods that spike blood sugar.

• The cycle is vicious: poor nutrition worsens diabetes, which increases healthcare costs, which deepens financial strain.

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Tips for Prevention & Support

Whether you’re living with diabetes or supporting someone who is, here are a few practical steps:

1. Know Your Numbers: Ask your provider about an A1C test, especially if you have a family history or symptoms like fatigue or frequent urination.

2. Build a Balanced Plate: Focus on fiber-rich foods like beans, whole grains, and leafy greens. Frozen veggies are budget-friendly and just as nutritious.

3. Move Your Body: Even 20 minutes of walking a day can improve insulin sensitivity.

4. Lean on Community: Join local wellness groups, cooking classes, or walking clubs. Connection is medicine.

5. Advocate for Access: Support policies and programs that expand food access, affordable care, and culturally relevant nutrition education.

Your Care, Your Community: Libélula Primary Care

At Libélula Primary Care, we believe that inclusive, culturally grounded healthcare is a right—not a privilege. We offer bilingual, care for BIPOC communities in Boise, with a focus on preventive health, chronic disease management, and food justice.

This National Diabetes Month, we invite you to:

• Schedule a wellness visit or A1C screening

• Join our Walk with the Doc community event

• Explore our bilingual blog for recipes, tips, and stories of resilience

Because your health is sacred. Your story matters. Your care should reflect your community.

Let’s take action—together.

References:

1. American Red Cross – Diabetes Awareness Month

2. CDC – Diabetes and Food Insecurity

3. Office of Minority Health – Diabetes

4. The Global Statistics – U.S. Diabetes 2025

5. Springer – Structural Racism and Diabetes

6. 9amHealth – Diabetes in BIPOC Communities