Exploring Diabetes Rates in Harris County, Texas (2013-2022)

Health Condition: Diabetes (including Type 1 and Type 2)

Place: Harris County, Texas

Time Period: 2013-2022

Morbidity and Mortality Rates:

• In 2022, Harris County had an estimated 11.5% diabetes prevalence, meaning 1 in 9 adults reported having diabetes.
• Age-adjusted hospitalization rates for diabetes remained relatively stable from 2013 to 2022, averaging around 8.5 per 1,000 population.
• Diabetes-related mortality rates increased slightly over the period, from 18.9 per 100,000 population in 2013 to 20.8 in 2022.

Disparities by Age, Ethnicity, and Gender:

• Age: Data for 2022 shows highest prevalence among adults aged 65 and older (21.4%), followed by those aged 50-64 (14.5%). Rates remain moderate for those in their 30s and 40s (around 8-9%).
• Ethnicity: Hispanic adults face the highest prevalence (13.1% in 2022) compared to non-Hispanic white (9.8%) and black (12.4%) populations.
• Gender: Prevalence is slightly higher in females (11.8%) compared to males (11.2%) although differences vary by age groups.

Trends and Patterns:

• Prevalence has remained consistently high over the past decade, suggesting a persistent public health challenge.
• Age-specific rates reveal rising prevalence among younger age groups, potentially indicating future increases in overall diabetes burden.
• Disparities by ethnicity and gender persist, highlighting the need for targeted prevention and intervention efforts.

Risk Factors:

• Modifiable risk factors: Physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, obesity, tobacco use, high blood pressure, high cholesterol.
• Non-modifiable risk factors: Family history of diabetes, age, certain ethnicities.

Surprises?

The high and persistent prevalence of diabetes, particularly among younger demographics and specific ethnicities, may be surprising considering public health efforts and awareness campaigns.

Policy and Prevention:

These data inform crucial policy decisions targeting:

• Prevention: Promoting healthy lifestyles, addressing food deserts, encouraging access to preventive care.
• Intervention: Early diagnosis and management, culturally tailored education and support programs, affordable access to medications and treatment.
• Equity: Addressing socio-economic disparities, increasing healthcare access in vulnerable communities.

By analyzing morbidity, mortality, and disparities, CDC Wonder empowers informed policy and program development to tackle the diabetes burden in Harris County and beyond.

Note: This information is based on publicly available data on CD