Health is leading a comprehensive initiative to address the diabetes epidemic through research, prevention, and equitable care. Directed by Qin Yang, MD, the UCI Health Diabetes Center is focused on improving outcomes for vulnerable populations, including Latino/a, Black, and South Asian communities, who face systemic barriers to diagnosis and treatment.
In June 2025, UCI Health – Orange was named a Recognized Leader in Caring for People Living with Diabetes by the Leapfrog Group and the American Diabetes Association, one of only 36 hospitals nationwide to earn this designation.
The initiative includes advanced research into complications like heart disease and kidney failure, community-focused programs to improve blood sugar and cholesterol control, and preventive strategies emphasizing early screening, healthy diets, and physical activity. It also includes policy advocacy to address social determinants of health.
A UC system-wide study led by Nathan Wong, a professor and director of the UCI Health Heart Disease Prevention Program, found that Latino/a adults with diabetes had the poorest glucose control and highest rates of obesity and cardiovascular risk. UCI Health is responding with culturally tailored interventions and expanded access to care. Serving over 5.6 million people, UCI Health is committed to reversing the diabetes epidemic and improving outcomes for the communities most affected.