Diabetes is one of the biggest health epidemics in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) community today. It is estimated that 3 million Australians will be affected by Type 2 diabetes by 2025. ATSI people are 3 times more likely to have Type 2 diabetes (formerly known as adult-onset diabetes) than non-ATSI people. The ATSI death rate for diabetes is 17 times higher for Indigenous Australians than for non-ATSI people.
Historical Origins
Before the European colonization of Australia, Indigenous Australians were hunter-gatherers. They were very physically active as they searched for food and resources. As colonizers seized their land, however, this lifestyle was disrupted. Many ATSI people were relocated to missions or towns where they were forced to rely on food handouts. Their level of physical activity sharply decreased.
Diabetes Today
Poverty is a major risk factor for diabetes. Often, the only affordable food has poor nutritional value. Diabetes is twice as common among those people living in remote areas. Community grocery stores can jack up prices in these areas, which can hinder efforts to make better food choices.
What can be done?
We must first recognize that ATSI people living in poverty have less time and fewer resources to make all recommended lifestyle changes to manage diabetes. If we really want to fight this epidemic, larger health initiatives must be introduced.
Preventive measures are key, as there is no cure for Type 2 diabetes once it develops. Setting simple and attainable goals such as cutting back on sugary drinks and getting lots of exercise is a good start.
Resources
Explore more diabetes statistics here:
Diabetes Australia Official Website
Diabetes information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders:
National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) Official Website
National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) Hotline
(+61) 1300 136 538
Adrian Chernyk: Health & Indigenous Australians 