Why South Asians Are at Higher Risk for Diabetes — And What We Can Do About It
Do you know that South Asians are twice as likely as other ethnicities to develop type 2 diabetes?Despite having a "normal" BMI, the majority of us carry more visceral fat and are more insulin resistant—a lethal mix that puts our community in harm's way. Diabetes is not about sugar; it's a long-term condition associated with heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and blindness.
Why are South Asians so susceptible? Both biological and lifestyle factors, says a study conducted by Arti Shah and Dr. Alka Kanaya. Genetically, we have greater insulin resistance and earlier impairment of the pancreas's insulin-producing beta cells. To this, add our body composition—a number of South Asians carry more belly fat, even when we are not fat. The "thin-fat" body type is prevalent, particularly in infants and children of South Asian descent, and puts us at risk from an early stage.
Migration and urbanization add to the problem. With progressively sedentary lifestyles and altered diets veering towards processed foods, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates, risk picks up speed. Most South Asian Americans consume more drinks with added sugars, fried fast foods, and snacks and get even less physical activity—a daily walk can make a world of difference.
But the biggest issue? South Asians are only diagnosed late, once complications have already developed. The same study found that South Asians also had more diabetes-related eye and kidney problems at diagnosis than white Europeans.
The silver lining: prevention is tied to awareness. Get tested early—if there's diabetes in your family history. Eat more fiber, whole grains, and unsweetened foods. Be active every day, even if it's just going for a post-dinner walk. And pass this information along to your parents and grandparents as well—diabetes has a way of being underdiagnosed in our elderly relatives.
By understanding our risks and making small but steady lifestyle changes, we can protect our sangat’s health and future.
Written by: Arnav Bhalla
