The Prevalence of Diabetes

In 2004, 21,024 adult Alaskans reported they had been diagnosed with diabetes. This represents a 27 % increase in the number of adults who reported diabetes in 2000. Within Alaska, diabetes is more common among older adults and among Asians, African Americans, and Hispanics. Currently, Alaska Natives do not appear to have higher diabetes prevalence than other Alaskans. Alaska adults with diabetes are more likely to have a lower income and to be retired or unable to work than their peers without diabetes. The number of Alaskans with diabetes has been increasing steadily since 1995, and this trend is likely to continue. Backgroun