Abstract
703-P: Addressing Health Disparities—Findings from Community Health Screenings for Diabetes and Hypertension in Underserved Populations
Diabetes (New York, N.Y.), Vol.74(Supplement_1)
06/20/2025
DOI: 10.2337/db25-703-P
Abstract
Introduction and Objective: This report summarizes findings from health screening events conducted with grassroots immigrant organizations in Iowa to improve awareness and management of key health indicators like blood pressure and blood sugar. The focus was on underserved populations, particularly Latinos, who face disproportionately high rates of chronic diseases. Diabetes affects 17% of Latinos compared to 8% of non-Hispanic Whites, and hypertension impacts 25%, often due to socioeconomic challenges and limited access to care. This report highlights participant demographics, health conditions, screening outcomes, and recommendations for future interventions.
Methods: Between July 1, 2023, and October 19, 2024, 25 health screening events took place in Des Moines, Marshalltown, Perry, and Storm Lake, targeting Spanish-speaking communities. A total of 1,021 participants completed intake surveys gathering demographic and health data. Screenings measured blood pressure and blood sugar levels, with referrals to federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) provided for follow-up as needed. Descriptive statistical analysis identified health trends and gaps in access to care.
Results: Of the 1,021 participants, 72% were female, and 56% identified as Mexican. Approximately 64% were uninsured, and 15% had diabetes, with 55% reporting a family history. Hypertension affected 19%, and 47% reported a family history of high blood pressure. Although 71% had prior screenings, 24% had never been tested. Referrals were made for 20 participants with abnormal results.
Conclusion: These screenings revealed gaps in healthcare access, especially for diabetes and hypertension. Recommendations include expanding screenings, targeting high-risk groups, improving follow-up care, and increasing education to enhance community health outcomes.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- 703-P: Addressing Health Disparities—Findings from Community Health Screenings for Diabetes and Hypertension in Underserved Populations
- Creators
- JIMMY A. Reyes - Iowa Academy of ScienceWENXING WeiJACOB O'HARAISNAVYS PEREZ-RODRIGUEZ - Iowa Academy of ScienceCHELSEA Brandt
- Resource Type
- Abstract
- Publication Details
- Diabetes (New York, N.Y.), Vol.74(Supplement_1)
- DOI
- 10.2337/db25-703-P
- ISSN
- 0012-1797
- eISSN
- 1939-327X
- Publisher
- AMER DIABETES ASSOC
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 06/20/2025
- Academic Unit
- Community and Behavioral Health
- Record Identifier
- 9984845054302771
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