• A study using data from the 2019–2022 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) examined diabetes prevalence among 109,558 U.S. adults across census regions (Northeast, Midwest, South, West) and metropolitan statuses (large central metro, large fringe metro, small/medium metro, nonmetro). 

• Diabetes prevalence was determined through self-reported physician diagnosis, and analyses accounted for demographic, socioeconomic, and body weight factors. 

• The highest prevalence (14.8%) was observed in nonmetro counties in the South, while the lowest (7.0%) was recorded in large fringe metro counties in the Northeast. 

• Adults in nonmetro Southern counties had significantly higher odds of diabetes—62% greater compared to those in large central metros—even after adjusting for key variables. 

• Elevated odds were also noted in small and medium metros in the Midwest and Northeast, though these were largely attributed to socioeconomic and weight-related disparities. 

• These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted public health strategies to address diabetes risk, particularly in rural Southern areas where economic, healthcare, and lifestyle challenges are most pronounced.

Click here to read more