Diabetes can strike in all age groups and socioeconomic levels. However, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Mexican Americans are more than twice as likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites of a similar age. And diabetics utilize healthcare resources at a rate of three times higher than patients in the non-diabetic population.
Diabetes was the sixth leading cause of death in Texas, and nationally, from 2002 through 2004. In 2004, 5,426 deaths were directly attributed to diabetes. The disease is believed to be under-reported on death certificates in Texas and the nation, both as a condition, and as a cause of death.
According to the Texas Diabetes Council (TDC), 30 people per 100,000 who have diabetes are likely to die from it. The mortality rates for blacks and Hispanics are more than double that of whites. Type 1 diabetes affects one in every 400 to 600 Texas children and adolescents. Type 2 diabetes, in persons less than 18 years old, has been increasing in recent years, TDC addresses issues affecting people with diabetes in Texas and advises the Texas Legislature about the statewide system of education services for all people with diabetes and the health care professionals who care for them.
More than 14 percent of Valley residents have diabetes – more than twice the national average. Many area deaths from heart disease, kidney failure, and other organ shutdowns occurred because diabetes opened the door.
Upcoming diabetes educational events in South Texas:
11/2/07 & 11/3/07
2007 Southwest Diabetes Symposium
Texas Diabetes Institute in San Antonio
11/7/07
6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
The Rio Grande Valley Diabetes Association (RGVDA) and the McAllen Hispanic Chamber of Commerce have gathered several experts on diabetes to make a presentation to the public on the dreaded disease. Healthy refreshments and educational information will be available.
McAllen Heart Hospital Conference Room located at 1900 S. “D” Street
For more information on the workshop and/or to register call the MHCC at (956) 928-0060.
