Diabetes is one of the most pressing health challenges facing Hispanic families in Georgia and across the globe. For many, barriers such as the cost of insulin, language differences, and limited access to preventive care make early diagnosis and effective treatment difficult. The result is a disproportionate burden of disease, particularly among children and adolescents.
At the global level, UNICEF has recognized diabetes as a child health crisis and has mobilized resources and partnerships to address it. Locally, the Hispanic Health Coalition of Georgia (HHCGA) works to ensure that these global strategies translate into meaningful solutions for Hispanic families here at home. Together, these efforts highlight the importance of tackling diabetes through both international action and community-based advocacy.
Hispanic populations in Georgia experience higher rates of diabetes compared with non-Hispanic white populations. This disparity is driven by systemic challenges such as limited healthcare access, food insecurity, and lower health literacy. Families often delay care because of cost, lack of insurance, or mistrust of medical systems. These barriers result in higher rates of complications, including kidney disease, amputations, and cardiovascular problems.
Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable. Without consistent access to screenings, many cases of diabetes go undiagnosed until serious health issues appear. For families already navigating language barriers and cultural differences in the healthcare system, the challenge of managing a chronic disease can feel overwhelming.
UNICEF has made diabetes a priority within its broader work on non-communicable diseases. Each year, nearly one million people under the age of 20 die from conditions such as diabetes when left untreated. To respond, UNICEF partners with governments, health organizations, and donors to integrate diabetes care into primary healthcare systems worldwide.
These programs have already transformed lives. In countries like Malawi and Zimbabwe, children who once faced the likelihood of premature death from untreated diabetes now have access to screening, insulin, and long-term care. These successes underscore the importance of combining advocacy, health system strengthening, and community outreach.
HHCGA adapts these global lessons to meet the needs of Hispanic families in Georgia. For over three decades, the coalition has offered culturally tailored education, screenings, and navigation services to help families manage chronic diseases like diabetes.
By combining education with practical support, HHCGA ensures that families not only learn about diabetes but also gain the tools to act. This community-centered approach builds trust and increases the likelihood of early detection and effective disease management.
The partnership between UNICEF’s global strategies and HHCGA’s local leadership shows how international initiatives can succeed when paired with community-based organizations. Both focus on prevention, early detection, and the ongoing management of diabetes.
Together, UNICEF and HHCGA amplify one another’s impact—linking global advocacy with local solutions that directly improve lives in Georgia.
Diabetes remains a formidable challenge, especially for families who face systemic barriers to care. Sustained progress requires continued funding, strong partnerships, and policies that prioritize access to affordable medications and preventive health services.
HHCGA will continue to work alongside partners like UNICEF to build awareness, expand screening, and advocate for systemic change. Each effort, whether global or local, brings us closer to the goal: a future where Hispanic children and families in Georgia have the same access to life-saving diabetes care as children worldwide.
Diabetes Support for Hispanic Families in Georgia
Q1. What are early signs of diabetes in children and adults?
A1. Common signs include increased thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Seek screening if symptoms appear.
Q2. Where can Hispanic families get low-cost or free diabetes screenings in Georgia?
A2. HHCGA health fairs and partner clinics periodically offer screenings. Check HHCGA’s Events page and local health department listings.
Q3. How does UNICEF help children with diabetes globally?
A3. UNICEF integrates early screening into primary care, supports provider training, strengthens supply chains for insulin, and educates families in low-resource settings.
Q4. How does HHCGA support diabetes care locally?
A4. HHCGA provides bilingual education, community screenings, resource navigation to trusted clinics, and advocacy that helps make essential care more affordable.
Q5. Is help available for families struggling with insulin costs?
A5. Yes. Depending on eligibility, families may access patient assistance programs, community clinic resources, and referrals provided through HHCGA and partners.
Q6. Are education materials and workshops available in Spanish?
A6. Yes. HHCGA offers bilingual workshops and Spanish-language materials tailored to cultural context.
Q7. How can providers or organizations collaborate with HHCGA on diabetes initiatives?
A7. Contact HHCGA to explore screening events, education sessions, and program partnerships aligned with community needs.
Q8. How can I support this work?
A8. Share the article, attend an event, volunteer, or discuss partnership opportunities with HHCGA to expand local impact.
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