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Why Diabetes is Rising in Asian Communities

Modern life is creating powerful undercurrents-colliding with the traditions that once protected us. This invisible epidemic didn't appear overnight. It has been building quietly, beneath the surface, shaped by culture, biology, and history. Let's understand why-and take action together.

Meet the Collective
Meet the Collective
Sedentary lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyle

Modern life has reduced daily movement—this increases blood sugar and insulin resistance over time.

Risk even at lower weight
Risk even at lower weight

Your risk rises at a lower weight. That’s why the BMI screening cutoff for Asians is 23, not 25.

Lack of awareness
Lack of awareness

Many in our community don’t get tested until symptoms appear—by then, complications may have started.

Family history matters
Family history matters

If diabetes runs in your family, or you had diabetes while pregnant, your risk may be higher—even if you feel healthy.

Ultra-processed foods
Ultra-processed foods

Inexpensive, tasty, and convenient foods spike blood sugar and increase cravings —they are everywhere and often contain lots of sugar, fats, and preservatives.

The Rise of Diabetes in Asian Communities

1 in 2 Asian American adults will face diabetes or pre-diabetes, often without visible weight gain. But early knowledge is power. Let's spot the risks today—and take action together.

Take Action
Take Risk Test
Our history & foods shaped us

Many Asian populations evolved with smaller body frames and lower muscle mass—traits that were once an advantage in agricultural societies around the equator.

Our new way of life changed us

In just a few decades, immigration and globalization drastically changed traditional diets to high-calorie, high-sugar, processed foods, while daily movement decreased.

Our bodies have not adapted

For many Asians, this lifestyle change doesn’t lead to visible weight gain. Asian bodies store fat deeper around the organs, where it’s more harmful. This visceral fat increases the risk of diabetes.

Our history and foods shaped our bodies

Many Asian populations evolved with smaller body frames and lower muscle mass—traits that were once an advantage in agricultural societies around the equator

Our environments changed fast

In just a few decades, immigration and globalization brought drastic changes to our traditional diets and ways of life. High-calorie, high-sugar, processed foods became common, while daily movement decreased.

Our body has not caught up

These lifestyle shifts outpaced our bodies’ ability to adapt. For many Asians, this doesn’t lead to obvious weight gain; instead, Asians store fat deeper—around the organs—where it’s more harmful. This visceral fat increases the risk of diabetes.

What is Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes occurs when too much sugar from what you eat stays in your blood instead of entering your cells. Know your A1C number.

01

When you eat, your body turns food into sugar, to give you energy. A part of your body called the pancreas makes something called insulin.

02

Insulin is like a key that helps sugar get from your blood into your cells, where it can be used for energy.

03

But with diabetes, either your body doesn’t make enough insulin, or your body stops responding to insulin the way it should.

That means sugar stays in your blood instead of going into your cells.

A high A1C means extra sugar is in your blood, damaging both big and tiny vessels instead of feeding your cells.

What is Pre-Diabetes?

Pre-diabetes is your body’s “warning sign.” It means blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes, yet — giving you crucial time to steer back to health.

PRO-TIP
Small changes, like engaging in 20-30 mins of physical activity each day and losing 5% of your body weight, can drastically cut your risk of developing diabetes.

Early Warning Sign

Treat pre-diabetes like a yellow traffic light before the red. The earlier you know, the easier it is to tap the brakes.

Why it Matters

Without changes, most people will develop diabetes within 5 years. Small changes today will protect your eyes, heart, and kidneys tomorrow.

Pro-tip
Small changes now, like engaging in 20-30 mins of physical activity each day and losing 5% of your weight, can have a big impact.

Explore helpful resources on understanding pre-diabetes

View Resources

What Is Gestational Diabetes?

During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes—including how it uses sugar (glucose). Sometimes, these changes can lead to a condition called gestational diabetes, around 5-6 months into your pregnancy — where your blood sugar levels get too high, even if you didn’t have diabetes before.

Why is it Important?

Gestational diabetes increases the risk of serious pregnancy complications for both the baby and pregnant person. For example, the baby may grow too big, leading to difficulty with labor and delivery.

Asian people have the highest risk of gestational diabetes compared to ALL other groups

The good news?

With early testing and support, gestational diabetes can be managed—and most people can go on to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.

View Resources
Pro-tip
Work with your providers to balance your meals. Incorporate as many activities as you can safely do— especially after meals. Also, check your blood sugar regularly to keep it in tight control.

Diabetes can quietly harm your body—long before you feel it

High blood sugar weakens both the tiny capillaries and large arteries in our bodies. Over time, this damage makes the blood vessels more likely to clog or break. But here's the good news: small changes now can prevent devastating complications. Learn how to detect early signs of complications—and take steps today for a healthier tomorrow.

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)

People with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke. Small changes—like walking daily or reducing salt—can protect your heart.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Your kidneys are like tiny filters that clean your blood. They remove waste and extra water, sending it out as urine. But, when there is too much sugar in your blood, these filters get damaged. Regular urine and blood tests can catch issues early. Staying hydrated and managing blood pressure helps too.

Neuropathy and Foot Complications

Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet are signs of nerve damage. Daily foot checks and blood sugar control can help prevent serious problems.

Diabetes-Related Eye Disease

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness because it damages the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Get your eyes checked once a year—even if your vision seems fine.

Gum Disease and Oral Health

People with diabetes are more likely to get gum infections. Brush twice a day, floss, and visit the dentist regularly to protect your smile and your health.

Your ABCDs: Simple Steps for a Healthier You

Managing diabetes or pre-diabetes can feel overwhelming—but it doesn't have to be. The ABCDs of diabetes care offer a clear path forward. These four letters are key to helping you stay healthy and strong—for yourself and your family.

A

A1C

A

A is for A1C - Your Blood Sugar Check

Your A1C number shows your average blood sugar level over the past 3 months. 

Normal: Less than 5.7%; Pre-diabetes: 5.7 to 6.4%; Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

‍Why it matters: High blood sugar overworks your pancreas and weakens your blood vessels.

‍Pro Tip: If you have diabetes, aim to keep your A1C below 7%, although this goal can vary depending on the person.

Learn More here: ADA SOC 2025‍

B

Blood Pressure

B

B is for Blood Pressure – Protect Your Heart

Having high blood pressure AND diabetes leads to higher risk of heart attack, strokes and kidney failure.

Why it matters: Diabetes already damages blood vessels; high blood pressure exacerbates this damage.

‍Pro Tip: Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. If you have diabetes, aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg.

C

Cholesterol

C

C is for Cholesterol – Know Your Lipids (Fats)

Having high cholesterol (fat) AND diabetes also leads to higher risk of heart attack and strokes. A simple (lipid) blood test can measure your total cholesterol, HDL (“good” fat), LDL (“bad” fat), and triglycerides (a type of fat).

‍Why it matters: High cholesterol increases the risk of plaque build up in the vessels, which can narrow or block blood flow and lead to heart attacks and strokes

‍Pro Tip: Keeping your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol low protects your heart and blood vessels. A healthy goal range for LDL is 70-100 mg/dL.

Learn More here: What does my LDL Cholesterol number mean?‍

D

Distress

D

D is for Diabetes Distress – Care for Your Mind, Too

Living with diabetes can be emotionally heavy. You might feel frustrated, tired, or burned out. That’s called diabetes distress, and it’s common.

Why it matters: Distress and depression makes it harder to stick with healthy habits—and it affects your body too.
‍
‍Pro Tip: Talk to someone you trust, join a support group, or check in with a coach. Taking care of your emotions is an important  part of taking care of your health.

A

A1C

A

A is for A1C - Your Blood Sugar Check

Your A1C number shows your average blood sugar level over the past 3 months. 

Normal: Less than 5.7%; Pre-diabetes: 5.7 to 6.4%; Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

‍Why it matters: High blood sugar overworks your pancreas and weakens your blood vessels.

‍Pro Tip: If you have diabetes, aim to keep your A1C below 7%, although this goal can vary depending on the person.

Learn More here: ADA SOC 2025‍

B

Blood Pressure

B

B is for Blood Pressure – Protect Your Heart

Having high blood pressure AND diabetes leads to higher risk of heart attack, strokes and kidney failure.

Why it matters: Diabetes already damages blood vessels; high blood pressure exacerbates this damage.

‍Pro Tip: Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. If you have diabetes, aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg.

C

Cholesterol

C

C is for Cholesterol – Know Your Lipids (Fats)

Having high cholesterol (fat) AND diabetes also leads to higher risk of heart attack and strokes. A simple (lipid) blood test can measure your total cholesterol, HDL (“good” fat), LDL (“bad” fat), and triglycerides (a type of fat).

‍Why it matters: High cholesterol increases the risk of plaque build up in the vessels, which can narrow or block blood flow and lead to heart attacks and strokes

‍Pro Tip: Keeping your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol low protects your heart and blood vessels. A healthy goal range for LDL is 70-100 mg/dL.

Learn More here: What does my LDL Cholesterol number mean?‍

D

Distress

D

D is for Diabetes Distress – Care for Your Mind, Too

Living with diabetes can be emotionally heavy. You might feel frustrated, tired, or burned out. That’s called diabetes distress, and it’s common.

Why it matters: Distress and depression makes it harder to stick with healthy habits—and it affects your body too.
‍
‍Pro Tip: Talk to someone you trust, join a support group, or check in with a coach. Taking care of your emotions is an important  part of taking care of your health.

A

A is for A1C - Your Blood Sugar Check

Your A1C number shows your average blood sugar level over the past 3 months. 

Normal: Less than 5.7%; Pre-diabetes: 5.7 to 6.4%; Diabetes: 6.5% or higher

‍Why it matters: High blood sugar overworks your pancreas and weakens your blood vessels.

‍Pro Tip: If you have diabetes, aim to keep your A1C below 7%, although this goal can vary depending on the person.

Learn More here: ADA SOC 2025‍

B

B is for Blood Pressure – Protect Your Heart

Having high blood pressure AND diabetes leads to higher risk of heart attack, strokes and kidney failure.

Why it matters: Diabetes already damages blood vessels; high blood pressure exacerbates this damage.

‍Pro Tip: Normal blood pressure is below 120/80 mmHg. If you have diabetes, aim to keep your blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg.

C

C is for Cholesterol – Know Your Lipids (Fats)

Having high cholesterol (fat) AND diabetes also leads to higher risk of heart attack and strokes. A simple (lipid) blood test can measure your total cholesterol, HDL (“good” fat), LDL (“bad” fat), and triglycerides (a type of fat).

‍Why it matters: High cholesterol increases the risk of plaque build up in the vessels, which can narrow or block blood flow and lead to heart attacks and strokes

‍Pro Tip: Keeping your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol low protects your heart and blood vessels. A healthy goal range for LDL is 70-100 mg/dL.

Learn More here: What does my LDL Cholesterol number mean?‍

D

D is for Diabetes Distress – Care for Your Mind, Too

Living with diabetes can be emotionally heavy. You might feel frustrated, tired, or burned out. That’s called diabetes distress, and it’s common.

Why it matters: Distress and depression makes it harder to stick with healthy habits—and it affects your body too.
‍
‍Pro Tip: Talk to someone you trust, join a support group, or check in with a coach. Taking care of your emotions is an important  part of taking care of your health.

The Foundations of Diabetes Care

Type 2 diabetes happens when too much sugar from your food stays in your blood instead of entering your cells.

Environment: Health Starts Where We Live

Health is a product of our environmental context in concert with individual behaviors. Where we live, work, and play shapes what we eat, how we move, and how we feel.

Lifestyle: Eat Less,
Move More

Diabetes is a modern lifestyle disease. Minimizing processed foods, eating balanced meals, getting high-quality sleep, and increasing physical activity are the foundations of wellness.

Social Needs - Support Makes Change Possible

For many in our community, taking care of our health is a “luxury.” Addressing other primary needs, such as securing stable employment, housing, childcare, and food security, makes starting and staying on the lifestyle change journey possible.

A Holistic Approach Rooted in Wellness

Roots are invisible—but they hold everything up.
When we strengthen what lies beneath, we can flourish and weather any storm.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Small changes now are easier than drastic changes later. Even 10-minute walks can create lasting change over time.

Food is medicine

Traditional foods can heal when we balance flavor, fiber, and portion. It’s not about giving up—it’s about cooking with care.

Annual Check-ups

You may feel fine, but early screening can spot silent risks before they grow. Knowing your numbers is a root of prevention.

Work With Your Provider & Care Team

Don’t face this alone. Culturally informed care helps you build a health plan that fits your life—not someone else’s.

Find Your Program

From diabetes prevention classes to emotional health support, find a path made for your language, culture, and needs.

Find Peace, Share Joy

Chronic stress raises blood sugar. Joy, connection, and moments of stillness lower it. Protect your calm—it's part of your care.

A Holistic Approach rooted in Wellness

A Holistic Approach rooted in Wellness

Roots are invisible—but they hold everything up.
When we strengthen what lies beneath, we can flourish and weather any storm.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Small changes now are easier than drastic changes later.  Even 10-minute walks can create lasting change over time.

Annual Check-ups

You may feel fine—but early screening can spot silent risks before they grow. Knowing your numbers is a root of prevention.

Food is medicine

Traditional foods can heal when we balance flavor, fiber, and portion. It’s not about giving up—it’s about cooking with care.

Work With Your Provider & Care Team

Don’t face this alone. Culturally informed care helps you build a health plan that fits your life—not someone else’s.

Find Your Program

From diabetes prevention classes to emotional health support, find a path made for your language, culture, and needs.

Find Peace, Share Joy

Chronic stress raises blood sugar. Joy, connection, and moments of stillness lower it. Protect your calm—it's part of your care.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s find the right path for you.

Whether you're just getting started or looking for support to stay on track, there's a program made for you: in your language, at your pace, for your lifestyle.
In your language
At your pace
Fits your lifestyle
You've already taken the first step
—now, let’s find your program.
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