Andrew Dysim
October 7, 2025

Introduction

Diabetes remains one of the most pressing health challenges in the United States, affecting more than 37 million people. Public attention often focuses on type 2 diabetes because it is more common, but type 1 diabetes (T1D) is equally serious. T1D is an autoimmune condition, typically appearing in childhood or adolescence, that requires lifelong insulin therapy and constant blood sugar monitoring. 

Within Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, conversations about diabetes usually center on type 2. Type 1 diabetes is rarely discussed, even though it does exist—and is slowly becoming more common. Although overall rates remain lower than in some other groups, unique genetic, cultural, and healthcare factors make managing T1D especially challenging for AANHPI families.

This paper explores how type 1 diabetes affects AANHPI communities, reviews current trends and research, and highlights the importance of early detection and culturally relevant resources that can help families better navigate this lifelong condition. 

Personal Motivation

This topic is deeply personal to me. My younger sibling was unexpectedly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and the experience changed our lives. At first, we didn’t recognize the signs—constant thirst, tiredness, and frequent trips to the bathroom. We thought it was just stress or part of growing up. Diabetes never crossed our minds, especially since  we associated it with older adults and lifestyle choices.

When we learned it was type 1, everything shifted overnight. We had to learn how to count carbohydrates, measure insulin, and track blood sugar levels while managing the emotional toll of a sudden chronic illness. What made things even harder was how little culturally relevant information was available. Many of the resources we found didn’t match our family’s foods, languages, or traditions. It often felt like we were navigating the
diagnosis alone.

Writing this paper is my way of raising awareness. I want other AANHPI families to recognize the signs early and have access to support that reflects their cultural values and everyday lives.

Prevalence of Type 1 Diabetes in AANHPI Subgroups

Although type 1 diabetes has often been considered more common among white populations, it affects people of all backgrounds, including those in AANHPI communities. These groups are incredibly diverse, and rates of T1D differ among subgroups.

According to a national study published in Diabetes Care, among youth ages 0–19, the prevalence of type 1 diabetes among Asian Americans was 0.26 per 1,000 for ages 0–9 and 0.77 per 1,000 for ages 10–19 (Mayer-Davis et al.). While these rates are lower than those of white youth (1.48 per 1,000 for ages 10–19), they still demonstrate that T1D is a real and growing concern.

Notable subgroup trends include:

  • Japanese Americans have higher rates of T1D compared to other Asian groups,
    possibly due to genetic and autoimmune factors (Grandinetti et al.).
  • Filipino Americans experience high rates of diabetes overall, and more clinics
    are now reporting increased cases of T1D among Filipino youth.
  • Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NHPI) have some of the highest
    diabetes rates in the nation. While type 2 remains most common, doctors in
    Hawai‘i and California are seeing more T1D cases, especially among multiracial
    children (Arakaki et al.).

Unfortunately, AANHPI groups remain underrepresented in national research. Without
detailed, subgroup-specific data, it’s difficult to fully understand patterns and create
targeted prevention and treatment programs. More inclusive research is urgently
needed.

Recent Trends: A Growing Concern

Globally, type 1 diabetes has been rising for the past two decades, and AANHPI communities are part of that trend. The SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study reported a 1.7% yearly increase in T1D among Asian and Pacific Islander youth between 2002 and 2015 (Dabelea et al.).

Several factors may explain this rise:

  • Environmental triggers, such as viral infections or changes in gut bacteria, may activate autoimmune responses in genetically susceptible individuals.
  • Lifestyle and environmental changes among U.S.-born children of immigrants could influence immune system development.
  • Improved awareness and diagnosis mean that more cases are being detected earlier than before.

Whatever the causes, the trend highlights the need for greater education, early screening, and culturally sensitive healthcare tailored to AANHPI communities.

Recognizing Type 1 Diabetes Early

Early detection is essential to prevent serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)—a potentially life-threatening condition that often occurs when T1D goes undiagnosed. Many children are only diagnosed after being hospitalized with DKA, something that could be avoided with more awareness. 

Common warning signs include:

  • Constant thirst
  • Frequent urination (especially at night)
  • Sudden weight loss
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Blurred vision
  • Extreme hunger
  • Fruity-smelling breath (a sign of DKA)

In AANHPI households, these symptoms are sometimes mistaken for stress, puberty, or minor illness. Cultural assumptions that “diabetes only affects older adults” often delay diagnosis, and language barriers can make it difficult for families to communicate symptoms to healthcare providers.

Ways to improve early detection include:

  • Community education through schools, clinics, and faith-based organizations
  • Multilingual materials in languages such as Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, and Samoan
  • Training healthcare professionals to recognize early symptoms in diverse populations
  • Routine screening for high-risk children

The earlier T1D is detected, the better the health outcomes—and awareness is the first step.

New Advances: Hope for the Future

Living with type 1 diabetes is challenging, but modern technology and medical research are giving families new hope. Recent breakthroughs have made daily management easier and brought science closer to finding a cure.

Promising developments include:

  • Artificial Pancreas Systems (APS): These combine insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to automatically deliver insulin.
  • Continuous Glucose Monitors: Track blood sugar levels in real time, reducing the need for finger pricks.
  • Teplizumab (Tzield): A new FDA-approved immunotherapy that can delay the onset of T1D in people at high risk.
  • Stem Cell Therapy: Research continues on regenerating insulin-producing beta cells.
  • Culturally Relevant Health Apps: Some tools now include Asian foods in carb-counting databases and offer multilingual options for families.

Although these advances are encouraging, access remains unequal. High costs, limited insurance coverage, and lack of availability still prevent many families—especially those from underserved backgrounds—from benefiting fully. Ensuring equitable access is crucial to improving long-term outcomes.

Resources for the AANHPI Community 

Managing type 1 diabetes is a lifelong process, but no one should face it alone. The following organizations offer education, outreach, and culturally relevant support for AANHPI families.

National and Regional Resources:

  • National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP): Provides multilingual materials on  nutrition and diabetes self-management.
  • National Council of Asian Pacific Islander Physicians (NCAPIP): Trains healthcare providers to offer culturally sensitive care and advocates for health equity.
  • Hawai‘i EXPORT Center: Conducts community outreach to address diabetes disparities among Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.
  • Pacific Islander Diabetes Prevention Program (PIDPP): Partners with churches and community centers to educate families and promote wellness.

Local Resources (South Bay / Los Angeles Area):

  • Torrance Memorial Diabetes Education Center – 310-891-6707
  • Providence Little Company of Mary Diabetes & Nutrition Services – 310-540-7676
  • UCLA Health – Torrance Specialty Care – 310-542-6333 
  • Be Well Endocrinology (Dr. Gaja Andzel)
  • Breakthrough T1D – Southern California Chapter
  • Adults with Type 1 Diabetes – Los Angeles Meetup Group
  • Los Angeles County Diabetes Coalition (LACDC)

These programs provide a wide range of services, including medical support, nutrition education, emotional support groups, and advocacy.

Conclusion

Although type 1 diabetes remains less common among AANHPI populations, the number of cases is rising—especially among children and teens. Subgroups such as Japanese, Filipino, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander individuals face higher risks that often go unnoticed because of cultural misconceptions and limited data. 

By promoting awareness, encouraging early detection, and expanding access to culturally informed care, we can help families manage T1D more effectively. Advances in technology and ongoing research continue to bring hope for better treatments and, one day, a cure.

Talking more openly about type 1 diabetes within AANHPI communities is not just about raising awareness—it’s about building understanding, support, and empowerment for families who are living with this condition every day.

Works Cited

Arakaki, Richard F., et al. “Ethnic Differences in Diabetes Prevalence and Risk Factors: The Multiethnic Cohort Study.” Diabetes Care, vol. 30, no. 3, 2007, pp. 586–591. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2022.” CDC.gov.

Dabelea, Dana, et al. “Trends in the Prevalence of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Youth: SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study.” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 376, no. 15, 2017, pp. 1419–1429.

Grandinetti, A., et al. “Prevalence of Diabetes and Glucose Intolerance in an Ethnically Diverse Rural Community of Native Hawaiians, Japanese, Filipinos, and Caucasians.” Diabetes Care, vol. 21, no. 4, 1998, pp. 549–556. 

Mayer-Davis, Elizabeth J., et al. “Incidence Trends of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes among Youths, 2002–2012.” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 376, no. 15, 2017, pp. 1419–1429.
National Council of Asian Pacific Islander Physicians. “Diabetes Programs.” NCAPIP.org.
National Diabetes Education Program. “Control Your Diabetes. For Life.” CDC Stacks.

Immigration and Schools = Safe Haven

Schools and Immigration

Information about Immigration from Asian Americans Advancing Justice
and the California Department of Education

Refer to this website for more information on your rights and protections under the US Constitution. https://ajsocal.org/immigration/

Schools are Safe Havens https://www.cde.ca.gov/eo/in/safehavens.asp
Keep Ice out of Schools https://stopaapihate.org/keep-ice-out-of-schools/

From the Los Angeles County Office of Education https://www.lacoe.edu/services/student-support/immigrant-relations

Red Card/Immigration Preparation Tool Kit if ICE visits you. https://ajsocal.org/immigration/#toolkit

Federal Agents Denied Entry to LAUSD Schools (4/11/25 Long Beach Press Telegram by Teresa Liu)

  • FERPA Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
  • Safe Haven Schools
  • Agents Creating trauma for students and families
  • Long Beach Press Telegram 4/20/25 Homeland Security vs. Our Children – Rep. Robert Garcia, Member of Congress, 42nd District in California
  • No one gets a free pass when children and public trust are on the line

Long Beach Unified School District Immigration Resources https://www.lbschools.net/about/solidarity

  • Safety Measures for Immigrant Students
  • What to do should ICE appear at a LBUSD school

City of Long Beach Immigration Resources https://www.longbeach.gov/health/healthy-living/office-of-equity/long-beach-immigration-resources/

The California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs (CAPIAA)

 

pihp logo

Diabetes Facts

o According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders (NHPI) are at a 2.5 increased risk of being diagnosed with diabetes than non-Hispanic white populations in 2018 (HHS, 2018).
o The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) has the highest prevalence of diabetes in the world and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has the world’s second highest rate of diabetes in the world.
o Coupled with geographical, historical, and economical challenges to the Pacific Islands, these factors further exacerbate the prevalence of prediabetes and diabetes among NH/PI communities.

The Pacific Islander Diabetes Prevention Program (PI-DPP) Storytelling Series

PI-DPP, is a year-long, evidence-based lifestyle change program recognized and supported by the CDC. It was formed in 2017 by the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO) and Pacific Islander Center of Primary Care Excellence (PI-CoPCE). Currently, PI-DPP partners with 11 community-led organizations located throughout the U.S. and U.S. Affiliated Pacific Islands (USAPI) in pursuit of improving the health and wellness of Pacific Islander communities. Aligning with PI-DPP success standards, participants aim for 5% body weight loss, 150 weekly physical activity minutes (PAMs), and lower HbA1C values.

Oral Storytelling is a fundamental tradition among many Pacific Islander cultures, ensuring stories and history are passed down from generation to generation. That’s why program leads from each PI-DPP site will talk story about PI-DPP’s importance, community impact, challenges and best practices, and next steps for their diabetes prevention programs.

Stay updated on stories by visiting https://pacificislanderdpp.org/our-stories and following AAPCHO’s Facebook, Instagram, Medium, and Twitter. To learn more about PI-DPP’s sites and how to get involved, please visit https://pacificislanderdpp.org/ for more information!

PI DPP

 

Vaccine Information for Children and Adolescents

CDC Recommendations

  • HPV (human papillomavirus)
  • Quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY and MenB) (Meningococcal disease)
  • Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis)
  • Influenza (flu)
  • Varicella (chickenpox)
  • COVID-19 (2 doses)

School Requirements

  • Polio
  • Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis)
  • MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella)
  • Hepatitis B
  • Varicella (chickenpox)

Vaccines are recommended to protect children from diseases. The above vaccines are available at physician offices, community clinics, and many retail pharmacies. People without medical insurance can get vaccinated at one of the six County locations; call 2-1-1 for a location nearest you.

For more information on vaccines, call the HHSA Immunization Branch at (866) 358-2966 or visit www.sdiz.org

Find a Doctor

How to find a primary care doctor by zipcode/city and insurance status: 
How to find a pediatrician by zipcode/city and insurance status: 

You can also call 2-1-1 or the number on the back of your insurance card for a doctor nearest you.

NHPI Data

Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) include: housing, education, socioeconomic status, ability/disability, insurance status, immigration status, and more. Learn about the impact of SDOH on Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander communities here:

By State
By California County

 

Great School Year

NPIEN Members and Friends,

We wish everyone, students, families, teachers and all school staff the very best during the school year. 

STAY SAFE: Follow the three “C's” Avoid Crowded places, confined spaces, and close contact

The3Cs

Maintain social distancing and avoid large crowds. If you are ill from the flu, cold, etc. stay home and consider conferring with a doctor. Use hand sanitizer, wash your hands frequently, and clean areas such as tables, counters and door knobs. Maintain your health. If you are healthy, this is a major way to combat the virus. Be aware of high risk individuals such as Seniors, Diabetics and those with other health conditions. Public Health reminds us to follow three “C's:” Avoid Crowded places, confined spaces, and close contact with others not in your household.

NEED MORE HELP? Your NPIEN BOARD AND STAFF MEMBERS are experienced school teachers, counselors and administrators who can help. Contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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