Demographic influences and health disparities

Abstract

Diabetes is one of the most common incurable, chronic diseases of childhood. Metabolic changes associated with diabetes are associated with development of serious acute and chronic complications with increased morbidity and mortality. The incidence and prevalence of diabetes, success in achieving optimal management, outcomes, and risk for developing later complications have been found to vary between patients of different race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Disparities between race/ethnic groups have been found to have persisted or worsened despite improvements in management technology. Potentially the interplay of genetic, biological factors along with environment and socioeconomic influences contributes to continued health disparities among children with diabetes. Better understanding of factors mediating health disparities can help bring about changes in management leading to optimal outcomes for all patients.