Health Care Cost of Diabetes Due to Acculturation Related Obesity in Non-Traditional Latino Immigration Locations‪.‬

ABSTRACT Latinos are the fastest growing minority group in the US. Because of language barriers, documentation issues and insurance status, many are unable to use or afford primary and preventive health care services. With acculturation the prevalence of many chronic diseases, such as obesity and diabetes, increases. Obesity and diabetes-related complications in immigrant populations, who lack preventive care and early diagnosis, have a major financial impact on our health care system. Limited research has been conducted on insurance status, health care utilization, obesity and diabetes rates in non-traditional immigration sites such as North Carolina, which is experiencing tremendous increases in the Latino population. This needs assessment (N=166) was conducted in Guilford County, North Carolina, to assess current health status and needs of Latino immigrants. Respondents were primarily without health insurance, used the health department more often than the emergency room for primary care and had obesity rates higher than national averages. Additionally, screening revealed high levels of undiagnosed diabetes. The proportion of respondents reporting the use of the health department as a primary health care source was higher than previously reported rates in similar populations. Early prevention efforts targeting both documented and undocumented immigrants in non-traditional immigration areas would be a cost effective approach to reduce obesity and diabetes and related health care costs.