### Discrimination and Type 2 Diabetes Care for Hispanic People in the U.S. Discrimination can significantly impact the medical care that Hispanic people receive for type 2 diabetes in the United States. This community faces various barriers that can lead to serious health consequences. Research shows that discrimination can harm a person’s health, and in medical settings, it can manifest in several ways. Structural and institutional racism in healthcare and society contributes to these barriers. Historically, marginalized groups, including Hispanic people, have faced unethical medical practices and discriminatory policies. Even today, racial segregation and discriminatory housing and lending policies persist, affecting access to healthcare. These social conditions create obstacles to obtaining quality medical care, including for type 2 diabetes. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified social determinants of health, which are the social, economic, and physical conditions where people live and work. These determinants significantly affect health outcomes. For Hispanic people, these determinants often include low income, lack of health insurance, and limited access to healthy food, all of which increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. To address these issues, it’s essential to improve the socioeconomic conditions of vulnerable groups. Prevention education alone is insufficient if people lack the resources to follow through. Mental health is another critical aspect. Many Hispanic people face stigma around mental health, making it difficult to seek help. Even when they do, finding a culturally competent mental health professional can be challenging. These barriers result in Hispanic people being less likely to receive mental health care, despite having similar rates of mental illness as the general population. Healthcare providers need to build trust with vulnerable groups and actively work to eliminate discrimination. They should take the time to understand their patients’ challenges and provide support accordingly. Managing type 2 diabetes involves monitoring blood sugar, eating healthy, exercising, and staying in touch with healthcare providers. Support from others, including healthcare professionals, is crucial. If you face discrimination, advocate for yourself and communicate how it affects you.###