Diabetes in African Americans: a program initiative

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus has been cited by the current Secretary of Health and Human Services, Donna Shalala, as one of the most serious health problems in the African American population. This article provides background on the incidence and causes of diabetes in Blacks, reviews the problems African Americans face in the prevention and treatment of the disease, and describes the American Diabetes Association's African American program which was developed to respond to these problems. The program's overall goal is to improve the health of African Americans by raising their awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, and ways to avoid or delay the onset of the disease and its complications. This article includes discussion on how these goals will be pursued through a coordinated strategy in three key areas: coalition building, advocacy efforts, and grass roots programs.