Among all racial and ethnic groups in the United States, the Pima Native American tribe in Arizona bears the highest reported prevalence of type 2 diabetes. With some tribal rates reaching as high as 60%, the disparity is stark. Nationally, about 1 in 6 American Indian adults are diagnosed with diabetes—more than double the rate of the general population.
The roots of this crisis trace back to environmental and policy shifts. In the 1920s, the damming of the Gila River cut off the tribe’s access to water, disrupting their farming lifestyle. Later, USDA policies in the 1970s and 1980s denied agricultural support to Native Americans, pushing many into sedentary jobs and away from traditional food sources. This shift led to increased reliance on processed, inexpensive foods and a decline in blood sugar management.
The consequences are devastating. Pima men live an average of 53 years, and women 63—nearly two decades shorter than national averages. The community also faces poverty, limited access to healthcare, and high medical costs. Diabetes contributes \$413 billion annually in U.S. medical expenses and lost productivity, with individuals in poverty bearing the heaviest burden.
The toll is not just financial. Diabetes brings physical, emotional, and mental strain, especially for communities like the Pima, who face systemic barriers to prevention and care. Addressing this crisis requires acknowledging its historical roots and investing in culturally informed solutions.
See: “An Insight into the Pima Native American Tribe and their Fight Against Diabetes” (March 31, 2025)Â
