Doctors warn Caribbean New Yorkers are learning of hypertension and diabetes too late
A Haitian-born physician at Maimonides Health says many patients only discover the conditions after a stroke or heart problem, and urges the community to “know your numbers”.
NEW YORK, United States. Too many Caribbean New Yorkers are discovering they have high blood pressure or diabetes only after suffering a stroke, heart problem or other medical emergency, according to doctors at Maimonides Medical Center.
Dr Cary Daniel, a Haitian-born physician at Maimonides Health’s new Nostrand Avenue Multispecialty Center in Crown Heights, told Caribbean Life that this was one of the common ways patients learn of the conditions.
“Many people live with hypertension or diabetes for years before receiving a diagnosis because both conditions can develop silently,” he said. Hypertension, he noted, is often called the “silent killer”.
He linked late diagnosis to limited access to healthcare, lack of insurance, demanding work schedules, family responsibilities and missed screening opportunities.
The figures
A report published last year by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene put hypertension rates at around 36 per cent in East Flatbush, where Black Caribbean immigrants make up a large share of residents, and diabetes rates at around 15 per cent. The report also said traditional screenings may miss the risk among Caribbean people.
Daniel said the high rates reflected medical, social and economic factors, including limited access to affordable healthy food, chronic stress, financial pressure and immigration-related challenges. He also pointed to acculturation, as immigrants adopt American lifestyle habits over time.
“Many individuals develop complications during their most productive years, affecting their ability to work, care for family members, and remain active within their communities,” he said.
Warning signs
Hypertension often causes no symptoms at all, Daniel said, though headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, shortness of breath or chest discomfort can occur. Signs of diabetes may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained fatigue, slow-healing wounds and darkened skin around the neck or underarms.
He advised anyone with a family history of hypertension, diabetes, stroke or heart disease to be screened regularly.
“Do not wait until you feel sick. Know your blood pressure, know your blood sugar, know your family history, and see a healthcare provider regularly,” he said.
