African Americans and Type 2 Diabetes: Social Determinants of Health in Prevalence and Outcomes

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that is more prevalent and has worse outcomes in Black Americans than White Americans. Structural racism has led to fewer health promoting resources in African American communities, preventing access and treatment for diabetes. Fewer opportunities result in lower median income for African Americans which creates difficulties for these communities to afford the high cost of diabetes care. Additionally, racist ideals are perpetuated in the healthcare institution that prevent access to equal treatment in diabetes care. Despite numerous organizations that support diabetes prevention and care, they fail to incorporate strategies that oppose racial disparities. Through the findings of this paper, it is recommended that various social policies are implemented simultaneously to improve the racial gap in type 2 diabetes.