U.S. Asians At Increased Risk For Diabetes

Filed in archive Lifestyle on December 17, 2006

With an average of seven percent of diabetics found in other ethnic populations, Asians' ten percent seems to place them at a surprising risk. Though often a healthier weight, and exposed to healthier habits, than other people in the United States, Asians often experience more insulin resistance.

But doctors accustomed to measuring weight as a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of the disease, are sometimes confounded by Asian patients, whose genetic heritage may predispose them to diabetes, even more so than other high-risk groups like blacks and Latinos.

"Pound for pound, Asians are twice as insulin-resistant as other ethnic groups," said Patrick Egan , medical director at Dorchester House Multi-Service Center . "I have lots and lots of skinny Vietnamese patients who have some insulin resistance."

Doctors urge more education and prevention among Asian populations, as these methods still seem to be the best way to fight diabetes, no matter the Ethnicity of the patient.

The article continues to explore why Asians are at a high risk, and the reasons go beyond physical, including cultural differences and the concept of shame. It's a fascinating, and worthwhile, read.