Racial/ethnic inequities in diabetes mellitus: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Disparities
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Social determinants of health and structural racism profoundly impact diabetes care.
• Historical policies like redlining and poverty concentrate disadvantages, limiting access to healthy food and healthcare.
• These factors contribute to a disproportionate diabetes burden in specific populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on racial and ethnic inequities in diabetes care.
• To highlight disparities in screening, glycemic control, and complication rates.
• To identify intervention opportunities for equitable diabetes care.

Main Methods:

• Narrative literature review.
• Synthesis of existing research on racial/ethnic disparities in diabetes.
• Analysis of differences in care and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Racial and ethnic minoritized groups face challenges in achieving glycemic targets and accessing advanced diabetes treatments and technology.
• These groups experience higher rates of diabetes complications, including amputation, blindness, and end-stage renal disease.
• Significant disparities in diabetes-related mortality exist.

Conclusions:

• Racial and ethnic inequities in diabetes are driven by social determinants and structural racism.
• Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions to ensure equitable access to evidence-based diabetes care.
• Reducing inequities is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing mortality in diverse populations.