Keywords

type 1 diabetes, pediatric, ethnic, immigrant, minority, race, glycemic control

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a prevalent chronic illness affecting children and adolescents. Globally, it is estimated that at least 1 million children under the age of 19 years are affected by T1DM. Immigrants and minorities have worse diabetic outcomes than the majority population. The purpose of this article is to identify common challenges in children with T1DM who are part of immigrant or minority populations. Major health challenges for children with T1DM who are immigrants or minorities include issues regarding access to healthcare, communication, and cultural adaptation. Access of children with T1DM to high-quality healthcare and new diabetes technology (such as insulin pumps) is often impeded by low socioeconomic status. Many minority children with T1DM live in homes where the primary language is different than that of the healthcare team, causing barriers in communication. Lastly, immigrant children, by definition, relocate to a new geographical location, where they must adapt to new a new culture and diet changes. Identifying and mitigating for these challenges can improve glycemic control and subsequently reduce diabetic costs, while improving quality of life and reducing mortality.