Hispanic Heritage Month is the Perfect Time to Talk About Health
Written by: Marcos Otero, Retired Physician Associate
Introduction
Every September, as Hispanic Heritage Month begins, we celebrate our roots—our music, our food, our language, and the resilience that carried our families across borders and generations. But there’s something else we need to celebrate: our health. Because let’s be honest—what good is salsa dancing at 80 if our knees, heart, or sugar levels gave up at 50?
This month is more than flags, fiestas, and folklore. It’s also a reminder that Hispanics face serious health disparities in the U.S.—and if we don’t talk about them, we can’t fix them.
The Numbers That Make Us Pause
- Diabetes: Hispanics are nearly 70% more likely to be diagnosed than non-Hispanic whites.
- Heart Disease: Our #1 killer. Cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity—you name it, we’ve got it in higher numbers.
- Cancer: Certain cancers (like liver, cervical, and stomach) hit our community harder.
It’s not just genes—it’s also about access to care, income, language barriers, and sometimes that stubborn family habit of “we’ll go to the doctor mañana.”
Why This Matters
Hispanic culture is built on family, community, and tradition. But if we’re losing our health too early, those traditions get cut short. It’s hard to enjoy abuelita’s arroz con pollo if diabetes already stole your vision. It’s hard to play fútbol with your grandkids if your heart is weak.
What We Can Do (Without Giving Up the Flavor)
Don’t panic—this is not a “give up tacos” article. This is about balance and small changes that add up.
- Swap sugary drinks for water a few times a week.
- Take a walk after dinner (yes, even if the novela is starting).
- Ask your doctor about screenings—especially if you have family history.
- Teach kids that health is a family value, just like respect and hard work.
Looking Ahead
Over the next few weeks, we’ll dive into the Big Three—diabetes, heart disease, and cancer—one by one. We’ll talk about why they matter, how to prevent them, and what simple steps make the biggest difference.
Because our health is part of our heritage. Passing down recipes and traditions is beautiful, but passing down good health? That’s the ultimate family gift.
