Minnesota is typically one of the overall healthiest states, yet it has major differences in health outcomes that cannot be explained solely by genetics and personal choice. Our health is affected by many factors such as genetics, the environment, relationships and social networks, where we live, our incomes, and our lifestyle. While individual behaviors cannot be overlooked, it is the conditions that shape our daily lives that really impact our health. Therefore, addressing health and health disparities requires solutions that include, but go beyond, targeted grants and access to health care. Locally, Meeker-McLeod- Sibley Community Health Services (MMS CHS) is working to identify and address health disparities so all community members can reach their full health potential.
Diabetes rates in Minnesota have been increasing since 2000 and hit an all-time high in 2020. Rates are even higher in the Meeker-McLeod-Sibley (MMS) region than in Minnesota. Data from surveys of MMS residents show higher diabetes rates among Hispanic residents than the overall population. In 2022, MMS CHS partnered with the community to complete a Health Equity Data Analysis to dig deeper into factors that may be impacting the local Hispanic adult diabetes rates. This was done through community conversations.
You can find more about Health Equity in Meeker, McLeod, and Sibly counties here.
