Diabetes mellitus among Arab Americans

Abstract

Diabetes is an emergent clinical and public health problem in Arab Americans, a growing segment of the US population. This chapter summarizes the current knowledge as to the prevalence of diabetes and its risk factors in this population based on available literature. Barriers to effective diabetes management and culturally adapted strategies addressing these barriers are reviewed. Special reference is made to the use of various diabetes drug therapies and a set of recommendations are presented to minimize the risks associated with fasting during Ramadan and pilgrimage for the Arab American patients with diabetes. Future representative cohort studies are critical to understanding the health needs of the Arab American patients with diabetes.