Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. People of Hispanic origin make up the nation’s largest ethnic minority and have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society. As of 2010, there are roughly 50.5 million Hispanics living in the United States, representing approximately 16.3 percent of the U.S. total population.

The Hispanic community also experiences several health disparities. In 2007, the diabetes death rate for Hispanics was almost 1.5 times higher than for non-Hispanic whites. In men ages 20-74 years, Mexican Americans had a higher prevalence of overweight from 2005-2008 than non-Hispanic white men or non-Hispanic black men.

To address these health disparities, many federal agencies, including the CDC have created activities and programs to support the health and well-being of Hispanic Populations. How is your community helping Hispanic Americans lead healthier, happier lives?

Want to know more?

Minority Health & Health Equity at CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/minorityhealth/

Health, United States, 2011 – Hispanic or Latino Population: http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/hus/hispanic.htm

Resources for Hispanic Diabetics: http://www.cdc.gov/features/hispanichealth/

Fotonovela from the National Diabetes Education Program: Do It for Them! But for You, Too (¡Hazlo por ellos! Pero por ti también.)