HIV and Diabetes: The Link Black People Need to Know

As medical care evolves, doctors are starting to see a link between HIV and type 2 diabetes. While the research is ongoing, studies show that people with HIV may be up to four times as likely to develop diabetes than those who don’t have the immunodeficiency disease. When it comes to Black people, the numbers may be even higher given their high risk of having either condition.  How HIV and Type 2 Diabetes are Linked There may be more issues but researchers have identified a few reasons that people with HIV may eventually develop diabetes. First, some medications that are used to treat HIV can consistently raise your blood sugar levels. If this gets out of control, you’re more likely to develop diabetes. However, that side effect might not exist with a few of the newer drugs so it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about your options.  Another health issue that can come from HIV medications is uncontrolled weight gain. Since being overweight is one of the known causes of diabetes, you’re more likely to develop the condition. The third potential issue is that the inflammation that comes with HIV can also lead to diabetes.  Finally, statistics...