Prevalence trends and racial-ethnic disparities of diabetes and prediabetes among children and adolescents in the United States from 2019 to 2021

Objective This study investigates disparities in diabetes and prediabetes prevalence among US children and adolescents using 2019–2021 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data. With rising trends in diabetes, understanding prevalence rates and associated disparities is crucial for targeted interventions. Methods Analyzing a cross-sectional sample of 19,490 participants aged 3–17, we employed NHIS data to calculate prevalence rates. Stratification by sociodemographic factors, race/ethnicity, and family income allowed for in-depth analyses. Results Between 2019 and 2021, overall diabetes prevalence was 1.18%, comprising 0.87% prediabetes and 0.46% diabetes rates. Disparities were evident, with higher prediabetes rates in non-Hispanic black and Hispanic children and elevated diabetes rates in non-Hispanic white and Hispanic children. Subgroup analyses revealed associations within age, gender, education, and income strata. Conclusions The study highlights potential increases in diabetes prevalence from 2017 to 2021 and persistent racial/ethnic disparities. The 12–17 age subgroup exhibited significant disparities, emphasizing the need for early intervention. Targeted strategies are imperative to mitigate diabetes and prediabetes prevalence in vulnerable populations, particularly non-Hispanic black and Hispanic children. This study underscores the urgency of addressing health disparities for improved overall well-being and healthcare outcomes.