We are thrilled to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15th to October 15th. As a diabetes educator who has the honor of serving the Hispanic and Latinx community, it is a joy to celebrate the rich cultural contributions and heritage of this community.

This month also provides an important opportunity to raise awareness about the health issues, including diabetes, that affect this community. According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, one in two Hispanic men and women are predicted to develop type 2 diabetes within their lifetime. Compared to their white counterparts, those living with diabetes are 50% more likely to die from complications.

Lack of access to healthcare and language barriers can play a role in limiting diabetes self-management knowledge, combined with socioeconomic factors that contribute to challenges in receiving needed care, education, and diabetes treatments.

Be authentically curious while promoting best health

Given that diabetes is a significant health issue for Hispanic and Latinx populations in the United States, here are some key points to consider during Hispanic Heritage Month:

1. Education: Providing culturally sensitive diabetes education and resources in both English and Spanish can help individuals better understand the condition and its management.
2. Promoting Healthy Eating: Encouraging enjoyment of traditional foods that are healthy and affordable, with an emphasis on whole grains, and high-fiber fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
3. Physical Activity: Promoting physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle. Organizing community events or activities during Hispanic Heritage Month can be a great way to encourage exercise.
4. Access to Healthcare: Advocating for better access to healthcare, including regular check-ups and screenings for diabetes, can help individuals receive timely treatment and support.
5. Community Engagement: Engaging with Hispanic and Latinx communities through cultural events and celebrations during Hispanic Heritage Month can serve as an opportunity to spread awareness and provide resources related to diabetes.
6. Be Curious – According to  Sandra Arevalo, MPH, RDN, CDN, CLC, CDCES, FADA, “Talking to clients about their background, culture and culinary customs is your best way to learn critical details about their lives. Most people are very proud to share facts about their culture, even more, when they find someone who is authentically curious and has an open mind.”

Hispanic Heritage Month provides a platform to address important health issues, such as diabetes, within Hispanic and Latinx communities. By decreasing barriers to education and access to healthcare, we can work towards reducing the prevalence of diabetes and improving the overall health and well-being of these important communities.

Education Resources in Spanish

• Diabetes Tip Sheets in Spanish (and other languages) published by ADCES
• NIDDK Diabetes Education in Spanish – includes the ability to create a customized search for educational materials in a variety of languages.
• Beyond Type 1 in Español – a Spanish-language website full of great information for people living with type 1 diabetes.
• ADA Spanish language web resource page
• DiabetesEd Patient Teaching Sheets in English and Spanish