Diabetes control in Asian Americans — Disparities and the role of acculturation

Asian Americans (AA) are disproportionately affected by diabetes (DM) and its complications than non-Hispanic whites (whites). We examined white-AA disparities in glycemic, cholesterol and blood pressure control, known as 'ABCs of DM', and evaluated if acculturation plays a role in DM control in AA with DM. Using data from NHANES 2011-2016, we found AA patients were significantly less likely to meet glycemic, cholesterol and the collective 'ABCs' goals than their white counterparts. Acculturation was positively associated with glycemic goal achievement in AA patients. This study identified disparities and pointed to strategies related to acculturation to improve DM control for AA.