Black women in poor neighborhoods run a much greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, according to a recent article from WBUR.org. In fact, African-American women are twice as likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than non-Hispanic white women.
Part of that may be because of where they live. New research suggests that housing location is more important than your education level when it comes to diabetes risk. That’s because of the lack of access to full-service supermarkets and the availability of fresh produce and meats low in fat. The study’s authors also note that limited playgrounds and walking space outside contribute to a lack of exercise, in turn upping the risk of diabetes.
The study’s authors conclude that it is therefore more difficult for people in poor neighborhoods to exercise and eat well. They suggest that public health advocates should work with city officials to improve conditions in poor neighborhoods to help fight the growing diabetes epidemic.
Type 2 diabetes, commonly referred to as ‘adult onset diabetes, impacts more than 20 million people in the United States. Another 57 million have prediabetes, a condition that can lead to Type 2 diabetes. People with Type 2 diabetes become insulin resistant, meaning their body produces the glucose-regulating hormone, but doesn’t use it efficiently.
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