Racial and Ethnic Differences in Diabetes among People with Psychiatric Disorders: Results from a National Representative Sample

Objective. This study examines racial/ethnic differences in diabetes in a nationally representative sample of adults with psychiatric disorders. Methods. Data were drawn from Wave 2 of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (n = 34,653). Logistic regression models adjusting for sociodemographic variables and diabetes risk factors (e.g., BMI, use of psychotropic medications) were used to examine racial and ethnic differences in diabetes across a variety of psychiatric conditions (e.g., mood, anxiety and substance abuse disorder). Results. African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans with common psychiatric conditions reported significantly higher rates of diabetes than non-Hispanics whites and Asian/Pacific Islanders with similar mental health needs. The higher rates of diabetes among African Americans and Hispanics with psychiatric disorders when compared to non-Hispanic whites persisted after adjusting for sociodemographic and diabetes risk factors. Odds ratios (OR's) for African Americans ranged from 1.71 (95% CI:1.28-2.27) for diabetes and any personality disorders to 1.89 ( 95% CI:1.19-2.99) for diabetes and any mood disorders. OR's for Hispanics ranged from 1.85 (95% CI: 1.30-2.64) for diabetes and any anxiety disorders to 2.54 (95% CI: 1.67-3.86) for diabetes and any alcohol/drug abuse disorders. Across psychiatric disorders, no significant differences in diabetes were reported between non-Hispanic whites, Native Americans and Asian/Pacific Islanders once sociodemographics and diabetes risk factors were controlled. Conclusion. This study presents racial/ethnic disparities in diabetes among a national sample of people with psychiatric conditions. Culturally appropriate prevention and treatment strategies are needed to reduce racial/ethnic disparities in diabetes.