HISPANIC HEALTH ISSUES

Hispanic Americans represent 13% of the total population or 38 million people. It is reported that by the year 2050, one-quarter of the U.S. population will be Hispanic. Although this community represents the largest racial and ethnic minority in the United States, they still face a multitude of challenges that continue to affect their quality of life in this country. Probably the most alarming area is in the field of health. Hispanics are faced with many health challenges including the burden of chronic and infectious diseases and limited access to health care.

Poor health for the Hispanic community can be linked to many barriers within the health care system. Studies suggest that lack of health insurance, language, and citizenship are key barriers that prevent many Hispanics from accessing health care services and from receiving quality health care.

Please visit our Links page to access web sites with Health information specifically for Hispanics.

Diabetes

DID YOU KNOW.....

• Diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death among Hispanics/Latinos?
• Diabetes is the 4th leading cause of death among Hispanic women and Hispanic elderly?
• More than 10% of Mexican-Americans over the age of 20 have diabetes?
• On the average, Hispanics/Latinos are 2 times as likely to develop diabetes as non Hispanic whites of similar age?

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO TO FIGHT THIS SERIOUS AND VERY COMMON DISEASE?

The Hispanic Center of Hawaii and the Diabetes Control Program need you! If you speak Spanish and are interested in helping your community, please consider volunteering. Promotores (health promoters) are needed to teach one class to people with diabetes on how to control and manage their disease so they can live longer, healthier lives. You do not have to be a health professional - all training is provided - and you'll be given a small honorarium for your time.
Please call Marina at (808) 692-7468 or Nancy at (808) 941-5216