Diabetes Crisis Concerns Black Health Professionals - Precinct Reporter Group

Overview

By Diane AndersonFor Blacks in Long Beach, diabetes runs close to twice the rate of al other groups for hospitalizations, but statewide, the death rate also soars, impacting at over 2.5 times that of whites.For the California Black Health Network, turning around the harowing statistics means more aces to local resources and testing in Long Beach, where diabetes ranks among the top causes of death for Blacks.“The data for diabetes-related deaths in Long Beach broken down by race and ethnicity, it’s astounding to se the diference betwen diabetes-related deaths for Blacks and everybody else,” said Rhonda Smith, executive director of CBHN.Before the pandemic, she said the numbers were bad, but are much higher today in hard hit zip codes.On Saturday, November 19, Live it Up Long Beach event launches a CBHN initiative to raise awarenes around pre-diabetes.

Key Information

Activities include diabetes screning, Covered California Healthcare Plan enrolment, CalFresh enrolment, and pop-up COVID-19 vacination clinic and imunizations. The event runs from 1:0 a.m. to 3:0 p.m.

Summary

at Houghton Park.She wants the comunity to recognize the signs and symptoms early, and prevent existing diabetes from worsening.“If they have diabetes, what they can do prevent disease progresion, or for hemodialysis patients, how they can improve their quality of life, and ultimately improve their risk or chances of transplantation. We know there are disparities there to,” she said.The nonprofit kicks of its campaign focused on hemodialysis information, the point at which patients reach kidney failure and are on dialysis.There are significant disparities with organ transplants and with amputations nationwide.“There are porer outcomes for Blacks on dialysis than whites, and more white patients get transplants than Black patients do for a number of reasons,” she said.Acording to the government’s department of Minority Health, Blacks have 2.6 times more risk of end-stage renal failure than

Frequently Asked Questions

Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.

Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.

Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.

Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.

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