Resources in Spanish

Diabetes and the Hispanic Community

Diabetes and obesity may affect Hispanic and Latino families, but it doesn’t have to define the community’s future.

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Happy multi-generational Hispanic family outdoors, smiling and laughing at a meal with fruits.

Your culture is part of who you are and it can shape how you think about food, family, community, health, and well-being. Across Hispanic and Latino communities, stories, traditions, and experiences are as diverse as the people who carry them forward.

Understanding and honoring these perspectives is an important part of creating a healthier future for everyone affected by diabetes.

Did you know that Hispanic adults are 66% more likely to have diagnosed diabetes compared to non-Hispanic white adults? 

It is important to stay informed about diabetes, risk factors, and how to manage the condition.

Here are diabetes statistics and below is the breakdown among Hispanic adults:

  • 13.3% Puerto Rican
  • 11.1% Mexican or Mexican American
  • 9.4% Dominican
  • 9% Cuban
  • 7.3% Central American
  • 5.0% South American
  • 7.2% other Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish

In 2024, Hispanic/Latino adults were 12% more likely  than U.S. adults overall to have obesity.

Check out the following programs and resources that can help you stay healthy:

Prevention is possible.

National Diabetes Prevention Program

The National Diabetes Prevention Program is a lifestyle change program proven to reduce or delay the risk of developing diabetes by 58% (71% for people over 60 years).

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A happy elderly couple out on a sunny day, the man on a bicycle and the woman jogging
Stop weight stigma. Start real change.

Obesity Association, a division of the ADA

Whether you’re looking to better understand obesity care, explore treatment options, or learn from trusted experts, we’re here to help. 

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Diverse group of six smiling young adults taking a selfie outdoors.
Learn about preventing kidney disease.

Kidney Health

When you have diabetes, your kidneys work harder to filter your blood. Over time, this can damage them. Understanding the connection between diabetes and kidney health can help you take early steps to protect your kidneys. 

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Family cooking food outside
Bring the flavors of Hispanic Heritage Month home.

Live Steak Tostadas Cooking Class

Join Mexican American registered dietitian nutritionist Anna Rios on Wednesday, September 16 at 7:00 p.m. ET for Grilled Pepper Steak Tostadas with creamy avocado, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a fresh tomatillo salsa verde. Inspired by classic Mexican flavors and techniques, this recipe is perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal. 

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Steak tacos with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and green sauce.

How do you say it? Key words related to prevention, obesity, and diabetes.

Have you ever wondered how certain diabetes-related keywords are translated from English to Spanish? Here are some examples that may help you during your next medical appointment. You can also bring a family member or friend to your appointment who can help you translate these medical terms.

  • Prediabetes
  • Fasting blood glucose (FBG)
  • Insulin resistance
  • Blood glucose (blood sugar)
  • A1C test
  • Low blood glucose (hypoglycemia)
  • Blurred vision
  • Medication
  • Insulin pens
  • Syringe
  • A1C test
  • Blood glucose meter
  • Continuous glucose monitor (CGM)
  • Insulin pump

Explore Our Spanish Resources

  • Diabetes FoodHub®: Our Diabetes Food Hub offers delicious, nutritious recipes that can help you enjoy every meal while managing diabetes or pursuing healthier eating habits while still eating the cultural foods you are used to. Explore recipes, meal planning ideas, and resources to find options that suit your tastes, needs, and lifestyle.
  • FindHelp: Search for diabetes resources in your area, like medical care, advocacy, mental health support, nutrition education, and so much more.
  • Healthy Eating: Healthy eating is personal—and it can be deeply connected to culture, family, and community. We offer science-backed nutrition information to help you understand how food affects blood glucose, plan balanced meals, navigate the grocery store, read food labels, and make choices that support your health.
  • Are you looking for trusted Spanish-language diabetes resources for both healthcare professionals and the people you treat? Save time by quickly finding, downloading, and sharing ready-to-use, American Diabetes Association materials during or after visits. Find Patient Resources. Find Professional Resources.