More than 39 million Americans have diabetes. That’s about one in every 10 people. Nearly 10 million don’t even know it. On top of these stunning numbers, nearly 116 million American adults have prediabetes. Chances are you or someone you know deals with this health issue.

Many things can cause diabetes. Race, age, lifestyle and community reasons are all linked to higher rates of diabetes.

Genetic Traits

African Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans and other minority groups are most likely to have Type 2 diabetes. They make up more than 90% of all cases. Research shows African-American adults are 60% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic whites. They’re also twice as likely to die from the disease.

Native Americans struggle with a higher risk, too. In some communities, 60% of tribal members may be diabetic. The Pima Indians of Arizona have the highest rate of diabetes in the world. More than half of the tribe has been diagnosed with it. Data also shows American Indians get diabetes earlier in life and have more problems.  

Hispanic communities are also dramatically touched. They’re 70% more likely to be diagnosed with the disease than non-Hispanic whites. Studies also show they’re twice as likely to be in the hospital with end-stage kidney disease. They are 1.3 times more likely to die from diabetes.

Age-related Risk

Diabetes also touches many seniors. More than 29% of people over the age of 65 are diabetics. They face much higher risks for diabetes-linked sickness. Kidney failure and heart disease can all be brought on by diabetes. Low blood sugar can be an unintended result of trying to treat diabetes with medications.

Lifestyle Factors

Apart from race and age, poor lifestyle choices and health “disparities” can play a huge role in the start of diabetes and its treatment.

Health disparities might mean living in a rural setting far from health care or a place where there aren’t many choices for care. Some people may live in a ‘food desert’ where healthy foods are hard to find. Areas with high crime can make it harder or even unsafe to workout.

Still, there are ways to beat these challenges: 

• Lose weight if you need to and keep it off
• Be active, exercise at least 150 minutes a week
• Eat more fiber-rich fruits, veggies, legumes and whole grains
• Limit the amount of high-fat, high sugar foods you eat
• Find ways to relax and shake off daily stress 
• Find care providers in your area and see them regularly

Research shows these changes can help cut the risk of Type 2 diabetes by as much as 58% and keep it at bay.

Sources: Diabetes 2024 Statistics,  American Heart Association, 2024; Diabetes and African Americans,  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health; Diabetes Within American Indian and Alaska Native Populations,  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020; Diabetes Still Highest Among AI/AN,  National Indian Council on Aging, Inc., 2019; Diabetes and Hispanic Americans,  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health; Diabetes Prevention: 5 Tips for Taking Control,  Mayo Clinic, 2023; About the National Diabetes Prevention Program,  Centers for Disease Control, 2024

  Originally published 12/29/2014; Revised 2019, 2022, 2024