Diabetes in Black California: Turning the Tide from Crisis to Control

July 2, 2026

Diabetes disproportionately affects Black Californians, with 17. 9% of Black adults diagnosed compared to 12. 6% across all races statewide, and Black Americans nationally dying from diabetes complications at rates 78% higher than the general population.

Who is affected

Black adults in California (17.9% diagnosed with diabetes)
Black Americans nationally (24% more likely to have diabetes, 78% higher death rate from complications, twice as likely to develop diabetes-related kidney failure)
Black Californians specifically (shortest life expectancy at 74.6 years)
Crystal Lambert's granddaughter (diagnosed at age three with Diabetic Ketoacidosis)
Residents of underserved communities across California
Medi-Cal patients seeking diabetes monitoring equipment
Urban community residents who lack safe spaces for exercise

What action is being taken

Crystal Lambert is operating the We Fight Back Organization, a mobile health and food access initiative serving underserved communities across California
The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is providing core Medi-Cal CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) benefits to eligible patients
Leon Rock is establishing local chapters of the African American Diabetes Association across the country, with California next
Dr. Khadijah Lang and the Golden State Medical Association are advocating for culturally specific health education

Why it matters

This diabetes crisis matters because it represents a significant racial health disparity rooted in systemic failures rather than genetics, resulting in Black Californians having the shortest life expectancy in the state at just 74.6 years. The gap between Black adult diabetes rates (17.9%) and overall California rates (12.6%) reflects broader issues of health equity, including lack of culturally appropriate medical information, limited access to healthy food, and unsafe environments for physical activity. The devastating complications—heart attacks, strokes, amputations, blindness, and kidney failure—are largely preventable with proper diagnosis, education, and community support, making this a critical public health priority that affects both individual dignity and community well-being.

What's next

Leon Rock is planning to establish California chapters of the African American Diabetes Association
Lambert continues operating the We Fight Back Organization to provide mobile health and food access services

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint