The Intersection of Income, Neighborhood Conditions, and the Risk of Diabetes among Members of Underrepresented Racial Groups

Abstract The research explores why diabetes is more common among certain groups, looking closely at the connections between income, race, neighborhood conditions, and the risk of diabetes in underrepresented racial/ethnic communities. Diabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels stay high, especially type 2 diabetes, has become a major issue affecting millions worldwide. Importantly, some racial groups, like non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanic/Latino adults, face higher diabetes rates. This is due to a mix of factors, including lifestyle choices, money situations, genetics, and the places people live. Previous studies suggest that limited resources in neighborhoods, bad housing conditions, and unequal community amenities contribute to high diabetes rates. The study aims to answer key questions about how income, race, and neighborhood conditions relate to diabetes risk. The review of existing studies emphasizes the intricate links between race, environment, and money situations that impact diabetes rates. The proposed model suggests that lower income and specific racial groups, like Black and Hispanic communities, are more likely to have diabetes. It also points to a connection between race, income, and neighborhood conditions influencing diabetes risk. The study uses data from the 2015 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, using statistical models to explore relationships between race, income, home ownership, and diabetes. Results show clear connections, confirming that lower income levels and certain racial groups are more prone to diabetes. Additionally, home ownership, representing neighborhood conditions, reveals specific patterns, with renters showing a higher association with diabetes. These findings offer important insights into the complex dynamics of diabetes risk, stressing the need for targeted interventions that consider income, race, and neighborhood contexts.