This diabetes resources in Nebraska guide offers warning signs, prevention tips, and free bilingual screenings to help Latino families protect their health.
By Christina Fernández-Morrow
In Nebraska, approximately one in 10 adults live with diabetes, with Latino families reporting rates as high as 16%. Diabetes is a leading cause of preventable illness and death statewide. Diabetes-related complications, such as kidney disease and amputations, disproportionately affect Nebraska’s Latino communities, often worsened by limited Spanish-language information and limited access to affordable health care.
In observance of Diabetes Awareness Month, this guide provides Nebraska’s Latino families with state-specific facts, warning signs, prevention tips and trusted, accessible resources, so more can screen for diabetes early and protect their health.
Diabetes in Nebraska: The Local Impact
Roughly 9.6% of Nebraska adults live with diabetes, and the rates are higher in communities such as Omaha, Grand Island, and Lexington where the Latino population is high, but access to Spanish-language preventive care is not. Undiagnosed cases are most common among underserved populations due to cultural, linguistic, and economic barriers.
Estela Griffiths, stylist at Valencia Salon & Spa in Columbus, NE was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was 24 years old. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the body mistakenly destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. It is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Because both Griffiths’ parents have Type 2 diabetes, doctors diagnosed her with the same disease. While Type 2 can be controlled with diet, exercise and sometimes medication, Griffiths wears an insulin pump to help her body produce insulin. “Make sure you get checked regularly, especially if it runs in your family. I recommend seeing a nutritionist to help you learn how to read nutrition labels and find healthy food options,” she advises.
Type 1 Diabetes
- Similar symptoms to Type 2; most don’t suspect the difference until traditional treatments for Type 2 are ineffective.
Type 2 Diabetes
- Most common in adults 45 and older
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- Extreme thirst
- Increased hunger, especially after meals
- Blurred vision
- Ongoing fatigue or low energy
- Wounds that don’t heal quickly
- Tingling hands/feet
Emergency Signs (Seek Immediate Help)
- Severe confusion, fainting, rapid breathing, fruity-smelling breath.
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Get screened as soon as possible. Early diagnosis saves lives.
Reducing Your Risk
- People over age 45 and those with a parent or sibling with diabetes, excess weight or high blood pressure are most at risk.
- Enjoy tortillas, beans, fish and fruit, but reduce portions and limit fried foods, sweets, and sugary drinks.
- Move regularly: at least 30 minutes, five days per week.
- Even small amounts of weight loss can yield significant health benefits.
- Get a blood sugar test every one to three years if you’re at risk.
Nebraska Resources for Diabetes Screening and Treatment
- Nebraska Methodist College Mobile Diabetes Center (statewide): Free diabetes and cholesterol screenings at churches, parks, and community events.
- Hy-Vee Dietitians (Statewide): Free A1C screenings, spring events with Spanish-speaking staff.
- OneWorld Community Health Centers (Omaha): Offers year-round diabetes clinics, Saturday ‘Dominate Diabetes’ classes in Spanish, and virtual support.
- HealthierU Diabetes Prevention Program (Lincoln): CDC-recognized classes (virtual/in-person) for prediabetes management for University of Nebraska-Lincoln employees.
- Every Woman Matters (statewide): Free blood sugar (glucose) and cholesterol checks for women ages 35 to 64; (800) 532-2227.
- Nebraska Health Network (Omaha): Bilingual patient guides, Spanish-proficient providers at participating clinics.
National & Online Support
- ADA and CDC programs: Call 1-800-DIABETES.
- Latino Diabetes Association: Culturally relevant webinars and group support
In Nebraska’s Latino communities, diabetes is common but preventable and manageable, and your health care provider can help you reverse its toll if caught early. Get screened, seek care, and connect with bilingual resources. Call Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services at (800) 532-2227 for free, confidential diabetes testing locations.
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